Runner’s Knee

Runner’s knee refers to discomfort that arises from stress on the kneecap (patella) and its interaction with the underlying thigh bone (femur).

This stress can irritate the cartilage beneath the kneecap, causing pain that worsens with repetitive bent-knee movements.

While it often stems from overuse, other causes like trauma, weak thigh muscles, or improper movement patterns can make the problem worse.

Common Symptoms

People experiencing patellofemoral pain syndrome often describe the following:

• Pain around the knee cap that worsens during activities like squatting, climbing stairs, or sitting for long periods.

• Swelling or a feeling of tightness in the knee joint.

• Pain that increases during activities involving repeated stress on the knee, such as running or jumping.

• Difficulty bending the knee or engaging in physical activities without discomfort.

These symptoms can become severe if left untreated, potentially leading to chronic knee problems.

The root causes of patellofemoral pain are diverse. Some common factors include:

Overuse and Repeated Stress

Repetitive movements during physical activities like running or cycling place extra stress on the kneecap, irritating the surrounding cartilage and tissues.

Weak or Imbalanced Muscles

Weakness in the thigh muscles or hip muscles can misalign the knee joint, increasing pressure on the patella.

Flat Feet or Improper Footwear

Flat feet or worn-out shoes can fail to provide adequate support, altering how the leg absorbs impact and straining the knee joint.

Trauma or Sudden Injury

Direct blows to the kneecap or falls can disrupt the alignment and lead to pain syndrome runner’s knee.

Structural Misalignment

In some cases, the patella does not glide smoothly along the groove of the femur, creating additional friction and pain.

Certain groups are more prone to developing runner’s knee, including:

• Young adults who engage in high-impact sports or other treatments involving intense knee bends.
• People with a history of knee injuries or previous knee surgery.
• Individuals with weak hip or thigh muscles, which can lead to improper knee mechanics.
• Those who frequently participate in activities with prolonged periods of sitting, walking, or bending.

Recognising these risk factors early is key to preventing PFPS and maintaining an active lifestyle.

A physical exam is typically the first step in diagnosing patellofemoral pain syndrome.

During this, a healthcare provider might assess your movement patterns, evaluate the strength of your leg muscles, and identify any swelling or tenderness around the kneecap.

In some cases, advanced imaging like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or X-rays may be recommended to rule out structural damage or pinpoint the cause of severe pain.

Once patellofemoral pain syndrome has been diagnosed, addressing the issue promptly with the right treatments can help alleviate discomfort and prevent long-term complications.

Most cases of runner’s knee can be effectively managed with non-surgical approaches, though severe pain or structural damage may require additional interventions.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Shoe Inserts (Orthotics)

For individuals with flat feet, custom insoles provide additional arch support, reducing the load on the knee joint.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy

This non-invasive treatment uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain in the affected area. It is particularly effective for chronic cases of patellofemoral pain.

Radial Pressure Wave Therapy

Radial pressure waves are applied to the knee to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair, making it a valuable option for persistent discomfort.

Magnetotransduction Therapy

This innovative therapy uses magnetic fields to enhance cellular repair and reduce pain in the knee joint. It offers a non-invasive alternative for managing symptoms and improving mobility.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT uses low-intensity light to stimulate healing in the knee, reducing pain, inflammation, and stiffness.

It promotes collagen production and tissue regeneration, speeding up recovery and improving mobility in chronic cases.

Focal Shockwave Therapy

This non-invasive treatment uses focused sound waves to treat musculoskeletal injuries by improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and stimulating tissue regeneration.

It helps alleviate pain and promote healing by targeting the damaged tissue around the knee, breaking down scar tissue, and encouraging faster recovery.

Knee Braces and Taping

Using a knee brace or patellar taping can help stabilise the kneecap and reduce pain during movement.

Physical Therapy

A physical therapist plays a crucial role in recovery. They design customised programmes that include:

• Strengthening exercises for the thigh muscles, hip, and leg to improve alignment and stability.
• Stretching routines to increase flexibility in the muscles around the knee and thigh.

Advanced Interventions

If non-surgical methods fail to alleviate increasing pain, consulting with orthopaedic surgeons is the next step. They may recommend:

Knee Surgery

In rare cases, surgical procedures such as arthroscopy or realignment surgeries address structural issues like misaligned kneecap movement or damaged cartilage.

Surgery is usually reserved for severe injuries or cases where all other treatments have failed.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

An MRI can provide a detailed look at the soft tissues, cartilage, and bones in the knee to guide treatment decisions.

Recovery Time and Prevention

The recovery timeline for patellofemoral pain syndrome varies, often taking a few weeks to a few months depending on the severity of the condition and adherence to treatment plans.

During this period, it’s vital to:

• Gradually resume physical activities under the guidance of a physical therapist.
• Incorporate preventative measures like cross-training and strengthening exercises to avoid overuse injuries.

Relief from Runner’s Knee Starts Here

Runner’s knee is a manageable condition with the right combination of rest, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.

At Dr. Foot, we specialise in treating runner’s knee with care tailored to your needs.

Our team of experts will perform a comprehensive assessment in a welcoming environment, identifying the underlying causes of your discomfort.

From diagnosis to recovery, we create customised management plans designed to relieve pain, restore strength, and prevent future issues.

Don’t let runner’s knee hold you back—acting early makes all the difference.

Contact us today and start your journey to recovery!