Knee Injuries Often a Result of Overuse

by KYW's medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough

Over the years I have talked about knee pain on dozens of occasions but there's a good reason for that. Many people suffer from knee pain. It is a problem with many causes and for those who suffer from it, it can be a major stress in a person's life affecting exercise and even day to day activity.

There are many causes. We often think of dramatic injuries but the biggest problem is years of wear and tear. Degenerative joint disease can affect the knees and sometimes exercise patterns have to change.

Runners may not want to hear it but if they are experiencing severe pain from overuse it may be time to cut back. You don't have to give up exercise but think of other sports with less pressure on the knees, like swimming. At the very least, take a close look at the surfaces you are running on and the quality of your shoes.