Update to Worried about Knees

[NbyNW]

Do you swim? Could be a great way to work out some energy. Focus on your stroke technique, and put a float between your knees so you're not tempted to put stress on them....

[Zippinalong]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I don't swim but maybe it's time I start? LOL
I'll probably do some walking and I see this as an oppoutunity to really start working out on my upper body. More core work and all that jazz. I was planning to start that in a month or two once it gets too cold to ride but now is a good time to start as any I guess.
The doc just said to take some Advil or something along those lines to relieve some of the discomfort. He said the PT should really help make things feel better quickly so I'm hoping that's the case. And I agree, this is not something to slack on and I am one to take these things seriously. I love to ride and I don't want to mess myself up by thinking the minute I feel better I'll go out and ride 30 miles. Though the mind is willing.....

[bmccasland]

Your PT is your friend. The heating pads and ice packs are wonderful.

I just "graduated" from PT after having my ACL repaired. Still have exercises to do.

Another option is to find a good massage therapist. The best one I found was one my bike fitter recommended. She worked on the sore parts (legs, from cycling) and recommended yoga stretches to do post ride. Got me through a cycling season.

Good luck, you'll feel better.

[azfiddle]

Hang in there, do whatever the PT / doc need you to do to get over it.

My experience with injuries is that when you can't do what you want to do, there is a double whammy because you get more depressed when you can't do the activity that helps you stay positive in the first place. I found it really depressing when I could not play my fiddle due to overuse injuries, and equally so when I went through my first bout of bike-related hip/leg problems. At some point it will be over and you will be enjoying your cycling again, even though you are missing it now.

The suggestion to swim is probably a good one because at least you can stay active. If you can find another outlet or interest it will help you get through the "withdrawal" period. If you can,H make peace with missing out on the ride you signed up for knowing there will be another one down the road. Maybe you can volunteer instead, to be part of it, if it doesn't just make you feel worse about missing it. Maybe this is a time you could go to a bike maintenance class or try some other activity you have been putting off because you were too busy or focused on something else.

Wishing you the best for a speedy return to feeling good and doing what you want to be doing.