Bursitis From Overuse.....

Question
Hi John:
   Hoping you can help me out with this.  I am a 45 year old male that just recently (6 months ago), got back into a fitness regime(All with the OK from a great physical and normal stress test.)
   Following Dr. Ken Coopers' advice in his books, in the 6 months, I acheived an exercise program of Fast Walking 5 miles per day, 6 days per week, in a time of about 60 minutes, give or take 3 minutes on any given day.
    I have been out of commission for 3 weeks now with what an orthopedic sports doctor diagnosed as Pes Anserinus Bursitis of the left knee.
   I am currently in physical therapy 3 X a week and am just starting to feel better.
    The Ortho Doc said I probably got it from overuse due to my walking program.  My question to you is:  When I am able to, should I replace the 60 minute fast walks with shorter duration Jogs?  And if I do, what is a good goal to reach for for cardio and general fitness?  Or should I just continue with the fast walk but cut down on the distance?
Thanks-Gerard

Answer
Hey Gerard
The heart doesn't no what cardio program your on so it boils down to what you enjoy most and will continue in the years to come with out getting injured.My preference has allways been running but i am not you.
Here is my opinion.Your knee's are breaking down and that should not be so the first thing i would do get into a strengthing program from the waist down.Abdominals...back extentions...leg curls..leg extentions and just good core exercises to maintain stabilty.
I would also take 500mg of vitamin C three times a day with meals to strengthen tendons cells and conective tissue.
As far as cardio and general fitness you can get in a good workout with 45 minutes with what ever your preference is.As far as a goal.First never stop doing it and you can follow your blood work ...blood preasure....resting heart rate.Just keep a chart but keep it simple Gerard.If you want to strike a good balance you can do a walk jog program to keep it interesting and add a new demention and who knows maybe you might want to get into some road races someday.Hope this answer your questions Gerard but if there is anything else just get in touch.

To your speedy recovery
and success

John
www.renacoachinternational.com

"...Only about 10% of human health can be affected by the medical system----and that goes for doctors: medication;hospitals;surgery;the works.The other 90% is determined by things over which doctors have little or no control-----and that really means your personal habits....."                               
                                                                            John H. Knowles,MD
                                                             President, Rockefeller Founddation

PS....Need i say more.Don"t you think it is time to order and EAT your fruits and vegetables.I rest my case.