r knee swollen

Question
hi, have been training for marathon for around 7 weeks following plan (have run for fun since teenager).  just did half marathon on sunday, felt good whilst doing - including knee.  unfortunately, on sun night r knee had swollen noticably; all round kneecap swollen, with 'ball' of fluid particularly to top outer aspect of kneecap.  i have had this before following marathon in 2003, ileotibial friction band syndrome was what phsio felt was problem, but was around 7 wks post injury i saw him.  can you please advise what i should now do.  haven't been out running since.  knee does ache.  i've always felt knee bit painful following anything over 10mile distances if i haven't trained enough.  obviously can't run just now.  will i be fit for marathon in 9 wks, obviously can't do if feeling like now.  i'd be v grateful for any advice you can offer, thanks v much, wendy

Answer
Hi Wendy
I would definitely advise you to forget the marathon and put your focus and training into getting your body back 100% if i was your coach.It is just not worth it because right now you can not train at a level which is necessary for a quality effort.This is just the price we pay as athletes by not addressing the early signs of injury.

All the best

John