I am a 27 year-old female, 5' 7", 135 pounds. I am in pretty decent shape, although I would like to improve overall this summer, so I am trying to work out 4-5 times per week.

I injured my right knee a few months ago because of not stretching before running on the treadmill. I think I tore the outside ligament or strained it really bad, because it hurts after working out and I can't even do the stairclimber at all, period, because it aggravates it too much. Lately I stick to the recumbent bike and spinning class.

In general, my knees hurt after working out, as well. I don't recall this ever being a problem until this year. Are there any recommendations to diminish the impact to my knees, like certain exercises or stretches I can do? Is this something I should see a doctor about? I just feel like they're going to tell me to rest it or get surgery, which I don't want to do, so I haven't gone to the doctor yet.

The best thing I found for something like that is Hylaronic acid. You can buy it at Wal Mart. It has no side effects or bad interactions with other things.
Also do whatever else that helps with it.