Bilateral trochlear dysplasia and running
Hello!
I am a 21 yo woman, and last year I got diagnosed with bilateral trochlear dysplasia type C and patella alta (I also have flat feet). My ortho said it is most likely genetic, and ever since, I have been terrified of working out.
You see, I got this diagnosis after feeling pain in both my knees for about 3 months after a gym session. I was working out the same as I had for months, but suddenly I felt a sharp pain in the outer part of my left knee; the pain in the right one followed soon after, and it got worse with time (some days I had immense pain even walking). When I got the diagnosis, I got an enormous sense of anxiety instead of relief. Basically, I got told that there is not much I can do apart from being careful, and surgery was not really advised, as the tedious recovery process would not be worth it for the benefits.
So I stopped working out altogether.
However, even before getting diagnosed, I had wanted SO BAD to learn how to run. I really enjoy the feeling of moving my body, especially in the outdoors, but I am absolutely terrified of damaging my knees. And mentally, I also feel the need to move in some sort of way, and running seems to be the most accessible to me (I am a student and don't have the financial means to hire a personal trainer for the gym, for example)
I would like to know if anyone has found themselves in this position, and if so, if they have any tips to share. I would massively appreciate it<3