Keeping Fit...with Personal Trainer Kirk Matthews
Dear Kirk:
I love running, especially outdoors. I am preparing for a physical fitness exam that is going to be part of my admittance clearance for a new FBI job, if I pass it. Problem: my knees, particularly on the inside below the kneecap, have been giving me pain recently, especially after my longer runs.
What’s wrong, and how do I fix it? I’m 31, 5’ 9”, 162 lbs, about 9 percent body fat. – Mike in Tempe
Dear Mike:
Congratulations on your fitness level. Those are great stats. Regarding your knees: There are many variables that can create or worsen this kind of problem. While I am not a physical therapist (and it would be a good idea to meet with one), I can offer a few possibilities. First, take a look at your running shoes. Look on the sole of each shoe. Is there uneven wear showing on the tread? This can show how your feet are dealing with each strike on the ground. Excessive wear on the inside or outside of the shoe can indicate a variety of problems. And, regarding the ground, are you running on an extremely uneven or soft surface? This can be a factor as well.
Are the shoes more than half a year old? Half a year is just about all it takes to wear down a good pair of running shoes for frequent runners, particularly on Arizona’s hot surfaces. If they aren’t good quality shoes, you can expect even less life out of them.
So, what’s worth more to you, a healthy pair of knees or a good deal on shoes? If you can’t meet with a physical therapist, then you could meet with a highly qualified personal trainer who can examine your stride and make recommendations. Or talk to an experienced consultant at a trusted source of shoes for experienced runners. They will probably also take a look at your stride and show you shoes that can help counteract some of the problems you are having. Any of the mentioned professionals might recommend a pair of arch supports, either full-shoe length or just under the arch itself, that might correct the problem instantly.
Many well-made running shoes have easily removable insoles for replacing with custom arch supports. And if you meet with a physical therapist and are prescribed custom-formed orthotic inserts, wear them! Your feet will need to get used to them, and you may be issued new orthotics over time to suit your changing condition.
Additionally, you may be lacking a well-designed flexibility program as part of your fitness regimen. Technique and length of time should all be factors in your stretching routine.
Also, there may be notable imbalances in your weight-training program that are causing uneven muscle strength, adding to or creating your problem.
As you can see, this kind of problem sometimes can be alleviated quickly with a $15 pair of inserts, but more often than not takes a thorough examination or your movement patterns and entire fitness regimen.
My best recommendation here: a well-qualified physical therapist, although the other suggestions might be all you need. Good luck on the FBI test.
Send questions for Kyrene Corridor personal trainer Kirk Matthew to editor@wranglernews.com.