Shianne Smith, the Bermuda heptathlete, should be fully fit for this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow as she starts her rehabilitation from a knee injury.

The 28-year-old, who has already qualified for Glasgow 2014, is set to receive treatment for a torn cartilage and osteoarthritis in Montpellier, France, where she is based, and will miss the entire indoor season.

Smith had been hoping to continue her momentum from the NatWest Island Games last summer, when she was one of Bermuda’s most successful athletes, claiming five gold medals and a bronze.

Although disappointed to miss the indoor campaign, Smith, who said the injury had been caused by overuse, is confident of returning to competitive action in May when she will begin preparations for the Commonwealth Games.

“It was bound to happen sooner or later due to how my patella is formed and how I walk,” said Smith, who did not require surgery.

“No worries, I’ll just miss out on the indoor season. I’m kind of sad about the whole thing, but I’m still in good shape.

“Just three weeks ago, I was running faster than I’ve ever run, and that was with the knee pain. I can run right now but it’s not advised.”

Smith relocated to France in October 2012 in search for continuity after spending several seasons training under different coaches in California.

She now trains full time at the esteemed Montpellier Decathlon Elite Club, whom she will represent in the outdoor season once she recovers from injury.

Montpellier Decathlon have helped produce top names such as Romaine Barros, who won the European Championships in 2010, while Louise Hazel, the British Olympian, has also spent time training at the club.

“The indoor [season] is a no-go, but I want to compete for the club when the outdoors starts on May 5,” Smith added. “I’ll be working with the physio on my knee before I start training intensely again.”

The Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow from July 23 to August 3.