Sudden and unexpected knee pain.

Hi folks- hoping someone can give some advice.

Just over 2 weeks ago I noticed a pain on the inside of my left knee on the ride to work. It came on after a couple of miles (it’s 5 miles to work), and was a dull, but noticable pain. As soon as I got off the bike, the pain went. Same thing on the way home. That weekend I set off on a longer ride, and after 10 miles had to turn home.

I can’t say that I noticed a definitive ‘event’, like a pulled muscle, or a partcularly tough climb- it just sort of came on out of the blue. Since then I have experimented, and althought it’s definitely bike related (only when I ride- walking is fine) it is the same on both my bikes, which are both over a year old. It’s also the same with both sets of shoes, the bikes and cleats both being set as part of a bike fit. I think I can therefore rule out seat height, cleat position etc. Just to clarify- I didn’t change any settings and nothing has slipped/ moved etc.

I’ve had 2 full weeks off now, during which time I’ve concentrated on core exercises, ITB stretching on the foam roller, and knee strengthening on a balance cushion.

Tonight I got on the rollers after my 2 week break and within 2 miles, the pain was back, the same as before. To say I’m p*ssed off is an understatement.

Further experiments proved it to be worse when pushing a harder gear, and also when in the drops, which is now making me wonder if it’s a hamstring problem. Have I pushed too hard, for too long, and now I’m paying the price?

Background- 43 years old- maybe 1/2 a stone off fighting weight, but not too bad- generally very fit. Cycle 150 miles per week, at least 10 miles per day- commuting/ club runs/ indoor. Not suddenly upped the pace/ length/ efforts, as far as I can tell.

Anyone experienced anything similar?

Driving to work is awful, as is paying for parking!

I’d be grateful for any advice. I will be calling the doctor/ sports injury people tomorrow, so would like to narrow this down if possible. Thanks.