MRI isn't necessarily going to reveal reasons you'd have knee pain while running. For example, I know for a fact that if I don't routinely roll out my IT band,

MRI isn't necessarily going to reveal reasons you'd have knee pain while running. For example, I know for a fact that if I don't routinely roll out my IT band, it gets too tight and that then results in pressure on the outer portion of the patella. It's rather unlikely that'd show up on an MRI, except perhaps for someone noticing "Hey, maybe your IT band is tight". Even then, probably not, since it tightens as I begin running. So, there's probably something real going on, and something real you can do to fix it. Consistent stretching, rolling, and low-weight exercises to build strength in muscles like your hip abductors makes a world of difference. If you're not doing those things, start there. Really do get a roller. The IT band cannot be stretched - since you can't exactly flex your femur.