Runner’s knee is also known as Patellofemoral syndrome. It is described as vague knee pain, as there is no specific injury. It is what we would call functional knee pain. It is the most common knee pain found in runners, followed by patellar tendinitis and IT Band syndrome.
Symptoms of Runner’s Knee
- Pain around the front of the knee cap
- May or may not have swelling
- The pain is worse during activity and absent when at rest
- Increasing activity increases the symptoms
Causes of Runner’s Knee
- Increased valgus stress/Q Angle
- Increased ankle pronation, flat feet or weak arches
- Lack of stability or strength in the hip
- Muscle imbalance in the
- Patellar tracking issues
- Lack of ankle dorsiflexion placing stress on the tendons in the knee
- Breakdown of cartilage between the knee cap and femur
Treatment for Runner’s Knee
- Active Release Therapy
- GameReady reduces inflammation and swelling
- Cold laser helps control inflammation and promote healing
- Kinesiotape
- Identifying the root cause of your pain will help to determine a proper rehab program
Tips for Runner’s Knee
- Seek advice to identify the cause
- Reduce mileage based on symptoms- Do not run through the pain!
- Change your shoes if they are breaking down
- Shoes that are stable with good arch support
