Knee Issue

[snowandrocks]

After several years of commuting a very short distance by bike (just over a mile) I've now got to cover about 7 miles each way. All was fine until a few days ago when I noticed my left knee was quite stiff - after cycling it became moderately uncomfortable and has remained so since.

The uncomfortable/tight feeling is at the front of the kneecap and I'm wondering whether it's just the increase in distance that's caused the issue or something more involved. I've stopped cycling in the meantime to see if the problem goes away, not wanting to make matters worse by pushing though.

Anyone suffered similar issues?

[otolith]

I had knee issues with my mountain bike (which I bought online and put together myself), which I reduced by fiddling with the setup. I had my road bike sized and fitted by a bike shop and have had no knee issues at all with it.

[snowandrocks]

I'll be buying a new bike shortly anyway so will make sure I get it fitted properly - current bike is an ancient steel framed tourer that I've had for years.

Although the distances are involved are pretty small I'm wondering whether it's just been too rapid an increase. Once this hopefully settles down, I might try cycling in a few days a week and build up from there.

[jodypress]

definitely go for a bike fit, best money I ever spent on my bike upgraditis. I've had both my ACL's done too so knee pain is a biggie for me.

[ALawson]

Is it at the front and below the kneecap? If so it's likely to be patella tendon irritation.

Have a look online as there is plenty information about exercises to relief the pain.

Obviously a Physio -bike fit should be able to assist in it not reoccurring!

[TwistingMyMelon]

Could be increasing distance

Check cleats are correct

Check saddle height is correct

Increase cadence over mashing gears

[Gruffy]

Definitely, definitely, definitely get yourself a session with a physio. Or a bike fit. Or both. You only need a small imbalance to start causing big problems when you're doing so many repetitions.

I'm a veteran of many knee surgeries and I wish somebody had coerced me into seeing a physio sooner. Nip it in the bud.