A Bit About: Runner’s Knee

Also called patellofemoral pain syndrome , or chondromalcia, there are two things to note right away about “Runner’s Knee”

First, it isn’t specific to just runners! 

Second, it’s not really a specific injury.  It’s a broad term used to describe pain on the front of the knee. 

Read on to learn more about this common ailment, and how we can help you recover!

What causes Runner’s Knee?

Several things can contribute to this problem:

• Overuse: too much, too soon, too fast

• A direct blow to the knee

• Malalignment from your hips to your ankles.  Do your knees cave in, or are you ”bow-legged?”  This can keep your kneecap, or patella, from tracking correctly while you move

• Muscle imbalance. Got tight hamstrings or hip flexors? Weak quads? This may cause compression of the patella in the joint or keep it from tracking smoothly in its groove. 

What are the symptoms of Runner’s Knee?

Even if you don’t consider yourself a runner, you may have Runner’s Knee if you experience the following:

• Pain on or around the kneecap, some people may describe it as “underneath my kneecap”

• Pain with squatting, kneeling, or rising from a chair

• Pain increases, usually with running downhill or going down stairs. 

The big question: Do I have to stop running????

That’s really your question, isn’t it?? Well, the answer is, “it depends.”  (Which really isn’t an answer, I know.)  You may have to modify things for a bit, but generally people can continue to exercise. 

If your pain persists, or causes you to change your gait or limp, definitely consult a professional.  A physical therapist is a great place to start and can help determine if further intervention is needed.

Do you have pain in your kneecap?You may suffer from Runner’s Knee!

Give us a call for an evaluation.