Knee injury question
 

A few years ago I was ice skating and my skate slid to the side and I fell on my knee. I either damaged the meniscus or tore a ligament. It hasnt really been a problem unless I walk downstairs for a while or run more than a mile. Well, since I rarely ran I didnt do anything about it. Now I want to run and it's been acting up. Today it was even hurting when I was shaving in the shower. I really cant afford surgery right now. Has anyone had success with a knee brace? A hinged one? Does anyone have a similar problem and has anything worked? I will consider surgery if necessary because it seems to be getting worse since I've been exercising so much more. Thanks.

PS I sort of saw a doctor when it first happened. My best friend's father is an orthopedic surgeon and he said that I could have surgery if it was a problem. We didnt talk about braces or go into it further bc i didnt anticipate exercising as much as I do now. I'd rather not ask for his help now since I havent talked to him in over a year.

Please, GO see your doctor, he's the best to recommend anything...

I agree with Ilene. You need a doctor's advice. If you've gone this long, it's unlikely you need immediate surgery. He/she can give you advice on what to do, or not do, to avoid further injury. But unless you know exactly what's wrong, it's hard to know what'll will help/hurt. I've had problems with my knees forever, and PT has helped a lot. Eventually I'll need surgery, but I'm putting it off for now.