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You wrote us asking about your knee pain and about lifting weights. Pain is a warning sign and should not be ignored. Running through the pain could lead to a worsening of the underlying problem. That problem may have to do with the ligaments, cartilage, tendons, muscles or bones around the knee. After an exam by a qualified physician and perhaps x-rays, you may be asked to start a physical therapy program designed to address the most frequent cause of knee pain: patellofemoral tracking abnormality. Essentially, if the kneecap (patella) does not glide just right, its undersurface and tracking groove (femur or thigh bone) will get inflamed. A physical therapy program that focuses on strengthening the quadriceps muscles as well as improving the flexibility of the quadriceps, hamstring and calf muscles will usually assist in eventually making the pain go away after three to four months. This lengthy process can be discouraging, but once you get through it, the knee pain usually does not return. In the meantime, running may not be an option and you may need to switch to a different aerobic activity like swimming or maybe biking. Your doctor can write a note to your coach in that case.
In reference to lifting weights, the American Academy of Pediatrics has considered it both safe and beneficial for youth older than 10 years. However, lifting weights can be dangerous if unsupervised, performed with poor technique or done on improperly sized machines. Using dumbbells is just fine and we would recommend you concentrate on technique. The weight can be increased by 10 percent a week, but always keep to an amount that can be lifted comfortably at least six times, so that the growth plates of the bones are not damaged. Once you have stopped growing, lifting heavier weight is permissible if done with good technique and under supervision.
You're not alone. Take a look at a few of the questions related to this topic that other teens have asked us.
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Posted 3-2-01
Do you have a question?  As a reminder, this information should not be relied on as medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Please read our full  .
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