Hello,
I have been an enthusiastic snowboarder for 13 years now, and at Christmas, i went away on holiday for a month boarding to France. I did not prepare myself with a fitness programme like i should've, and i came back at the end of January with pains in my knees. I thought this was due to strenuous riding everyday, even thought most days were just half days, with the holiday being for such a length of time, rather than a week. I have been back for 4 weeks now, and the pain is still there. It is at the sides of each knee and seems to be everytime that i am sat for a while and i get up, the pain is there, or if i bend my knees at all, like if i sit on the floor crossed legged or i just get up from my desk. It also hurts when i am getting out of bed. It is getting very uncomfortable, and i would be most appreciated if you could give me some advice, as i dont want to waste my doctor's time, if it is just a strain, as to whether i should see the doctor or a professional practice. I want to start at the gym within the next week attending fitness classes, but i dont know if it is ok for me to do so. I have never had this problem before.