Hi all.
Used to train the SS programme a few years back. Long story short I worked my way up to a 120kg ish squat and then injured myself from some combination of the weights and playing football (soccer to you Americans).
I have had coaching checks via a London based SS coach in the past and form checks on here. Out of date now of course, as I havent trained weights properly in over 2 years.
So, back story out the way. I want to start squatting again but I still have knee issues. Ive extensively researched the topic and seen doctors and physios. None of which has really helped me much but i can at least be fairly sure on what the issue could be.
It is some combination of:
1.chronic patella tendonitis likely caused by scar tissue on the tendon-patella join.
2. patellofemoral pain syndrome around and under the patella.
3. Genetic factors with regards to my small knees, flat feet, long proportioned legs and poorly aligned patella.
I get this issue in both knees.
MRI scans confirmed a small meniscus tear in my right knee but not significant enough to operate on, about 4 years ago now maybe more.
When i do any sports which load the knee eg soccer or hiking (walking downhill is worse) or squatting, i get patella tendon pain during and a whole knee ache and stiffness following the exercise. I can mountain bike ok, presumably because there is no impact loading with the cycling.
I do stretching, which seems to help a little, and i cross massage across the tendon to try and mash up the scar tissue, which also seems to help a little. I now also wear insoles for flat feet which also helps and was never previously highlighted as a contributer until my research identified it recently. Professionals I have seen along the way have been utter crap to be honest, I have no confidence in what any of them have to say on the matter. All my improvements have been self discovered, piecing together bits of knowledge from all over the place.
But I still have the pain. Im desparate to get lifting again but this is so frustrating. I am 39 by the way, not young any more. I want lifting to fit into a general level of activity which includes footy, cycling and hiking. I want to lift again because i can tell my legs are atrophied, probably partly because of my knee issues which can make it difficult to tense my quads up hard.
Id appreciate any advice on what I know isa complete nightmare of an injury topic.
Thanks.