There was a study in British Journal of Sports Medicine which explored how recreational runners with a history of knee surgery feel about running. 17 runners (running ≥3 times a week, ≥10 km/week) who had knee surgery around 7 years ago were interviewed and the records were analysed by a team of physiotherapists who treat and study running-related injuries.
Introduction
People who’ve had knee surgery are more likely to develop early knee osteoarthritis, and many don’t return to their previous sports. Running is a popular choice for staying active thanks to its convenience and health benefits—but its long-term impact on post-surgery knees isn’t clear.
What Helped or Got in the Way of Running After Knee Surgery
What helped:
Supportive Physios – Having a knowledgeable, encouraging physio who explained pain, helped set realistic goals, and built trust made a big difference.
Rehab & Strength Training – Structured rehab focused on lower-body strength helped with performance, injury prevention, and staying pain-free.
Walk-Run Programs – Gradually increasing running using a guided walk-run plan was key for many.
Smart load management – Listening to their bodies, adjusting and easing into training was important.
Mental health benefits – The motivation to run came less from joint health and more from stress relief, mood boosts, and overall wellbeing.
Footwear and Running Surfaces – wearing the right shoes, and switching up running surfaces all help.
What Got in the Way:
Unhelpful Advice – Some were told not to run or weren’t given enough guidance, which set them back.
Ongoing Symptoms and New Injuries – Knee pain, muscle weakness, and pushing through pain slowed recovery and often disrupted routines.
Fear of Reinjury – Especially after ACL surgery, fear and anxiety about reinjury held some back.
Busy Lives – Work and family made it tough to find time, even for motivated runners.
What Runners Think About Running & Their Knees
Some runners believe running helps their knees feel better and keeps them healthy long-term. A few worry it might cause more wear and tear down the road—but they still choose to run anyway.
What They Know About Knee Osteoarthritis:
When it comes to knee OA, most described it in medical terms—like “wear and tear” or “bone-on-bone.” They knew past injuries or surgery were risk factors but weren’t always sure how to prevent or manage it—other than staying active and strong, which helps.
Why They Run (Post-Surgery):
The big motivator? Mental health. Running helps with stress, clears the mind, and just makes people feel good. Many run for fun, for the social vibe, or because they love setting and hitting goals—even competing again.
Yes, the physical health perks are great too—but for most, it’s really about how running makes them feel.
Takeaway:
To support runners after knee surgery, focus on clear rehab plans, education, strength training, and pacing.
Mental wellbeing is a powerful motivator—and runners need guidance grounded in evidence, not fear or myths.
Find the full study here.
You can also find out more about knee pain in our article or informational video.
Here is a list of common running injuries and treatment options.