I love running, but...

Thanks, everyone. :)

I, unfortunately, cannot go to a doctor (no health insurance), but in the meantime I am going to ice, integrate swimming, and buy new running shoes. 

It was heartening to hear that your knee problems didn't stop you from running. Thanks for the encouragement!

Runner's Knee is a very common overuse injury and I can tell you, I'VE had it! What you need to do is back off a bit on the mileage, ICE and ELEVATE your knees before and after each run, go to Runner's World online to get good suggestions about knee strengthening exercises--they make a HUGE difference!!

You do not have to stop running to resolve the issue if you catch it in time--but you DO have to listen to your body, and take it slow and steady. Avoid pounding downhill, and remember it takes a longer time for our tendons to adapt to running than it does our muscles and cardiovascular system. Your knees, ankles, feet--all will adapt to running over time. But overuse should be avoided.

(New shoes are terrific--be sure to get fitted for the proper shoe, with a good athletic insole. Much depends on whether you're a neutral runner, an underpronator or overpronator).

You'll get through this! Hang in there!

Find a good chiropractor or physical therapist.  The chiro I go to charges on a ability to pay basis.  If you have insurance he tries to make it work, if not, he works off a very small fee.  I get taped almost every week now and he has gotten me through IT band, plantar, and hip and knee problems without missing a day of running.  I have had much better practical success with the chiro this year, than going to the doctor and getting x-rays, taking pills, and resting the legs...
Rob

Swimming and walking are good cardio exercises as well.