…at least I think that’s what it is, after reading the pages of “Knee Pain” on WebMD; the circumstances of the initial pain (shifting my leg during Leg Press) and the subsequent painful twinges seem to support this diagnosis.
So I searched T-Nation, and found some good (that is, hopeful) info from previous threads. Seems like this isn’t that rare an injury, and recovery isn’t that difficult.
So here’s what I’m asking of those who have experience (either directly or through friends):
- If I can bend my knee in ways that do NOT cause the painful twinge, is it okay to continue to train legs?
- Am I causing more damage, even if I don’t FEEL the pain?
- Once surgery is done (and I am hoping to get this professionally diagnosed and dealt with ASAP), how long might I have to stay off my leg completely, or can I walk around? (From previous threads, I gather that 3-4 weeks of recovery/PT and you’re right as rain again, but I’m not sure about the time immediately post-op.)
To make this easy, I constructed a handy-dandy poll; just click the “Quote” button to the right and check one:
___TShaw, You’re stupid if you think you can put stress on a joint when you are sure there’s an injury.
___TShaw, You’re just plain stupid, and not worth my time (but please appreciate the fact that I’ve responded to your post).
___TShaw, All my friends get torn menisci/meniscuses (anybody know if it’s first declension?), and they continue to play professional football/leg press 600 pounds per leg/do farmer’s walks up stairs. Man up and lift!
___TShaw, I’m not a doctor, but I think you should train so long as you don’t feel pain; stop immediately if the pain returns.
___TShaw, Just eat more and lift big.
(The earliest I can see an ortho is a week from today–dammit–so I’m getting anxious about how long this process will keep me from Leg Day. In my loneliness and self-doubt, I have turned to the collective wisdom and moral support of the Nation. Shows you how desperate I really am.)
But seriously, people, thanks for any useful input!