The ability to rotate makes the knee joint susceptible to injury. This cartilage, called articular menisci, consists of crescent-shaped wedges of fibrocartilage which absorb and distribute stress to the knee. Meniscal tears are among the most common knee injuries. Diagnosis of a meniscal tear can be confirmed by arthroscopy, a surgical procedure whereby a physician inserts an optical instrument into the knee to visualize damage and any cartilage that should be removed. Stress fractures, micro-fractures of leg and feet bones caused by repetitive forceful impact, are often associated with runners.
Stress fractures cause pain and tenderness at the fracture site.
Resting the leg is imperative and running must be restricted until you are pain-free for four to six weeks. In addition, physical therapy can be helpful to maintain flexibility and strength of muscles. Without a drastic change in activity, the stress fracture could progress to broken bone. Exercise that is not weight bearing, such as cycling or swimming, can be good alternatives to running.