Through many years of running I’ve been fortunate to avoid knee injuries. There are too many articles about how hard running is on the knees. We also have a family member on crutches, so the subject is top of mind. As I continue to pound away at my knees on the asphalt every morning, I can only hope that the occasional tweaks and aches don’t develop into anything more serious. The three knees are very important to me – right, left, and wee, but my once youthful body continues to deteriorate with age.  

I occasionally use a nylon brace on my right knee as a protective measure and alter my route to compensate for road grade. This helps distribute the blow of each step and alters the angle of impact. Changing surfaces also reduces the strain. I could feel some slight discomfort in my right knee this morning, so I may need to go back to the support brace. There’s a certain paranoia with any injury that might affect my ability to carry on The Streak. 

The left knee has never had any issues thanks to cushioned shoes and corrective inserts. I’ll make an effort in upcoming days to favor the left with each stride. It’s a careful balancing act to distribute weight from one side to the other. Balance is something that is a problem with older runners like myself. My family makes fun of my lack of speed and awkward form. I at least persistently shuffle along every day like the story of the tortoise and the hare. Day number 4,242 is in the books, but it wasn’t pretty. 

The wee-knee is a whole different issue. This third knee has little to do with running but a lot to do with old age. After six trips to the bathroom last night, it was almost a relief to head out the door this morning. Balance and Bladder control are my two biggest foes, with stiff and sore muscles adding to the misery. Addictive habits like Diet Coke and wine only add to my frequent trips to the toilet. Advil is my friend, as I limp through life on three knees.