Runner's Knee: Common Symptoms and Risk Factors
Running is a great way to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle, but it can come with its fair share of challenges. One common issue that many runners face is known as “runner’s knee.” It’s a painful condition that can significantly impact your ability to run and enjoy physical activities. Luckily, physiotherapy offers effective treatment options to help you manage and overcome this knee problem.
Runner’s knee, medically known as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFP), is a common injury among runners. It occurs when the cartilage under the kneecap becomes irritated or damaged, leading to pain and discomfort. It’s a frustrating setback that can derail your training and hinder your progress.
Common symptoms of runner’s knee?
Knee pain associated with patellofemoral pain is typically felt around the patella (knee cap) and can be felt as if the pain is coming from behind the patella.
PFP is usually a condition that has been bothering the knees for a longer time, with typically no single event or trauma that precipitated the pain. PFP may resolve at times and then return, and this cycle can persist for years.
Pain can be provoked by activities such as climbing stairs, running, squatting and prolonged sitting.
Pain may also come on during your activities and persist afterwards, or only after the activity, such as the day after.
Common risk factors for runner’s knee
Many factors can increase the risk of PFP, these include:
Reduced muscle strength of the quadriceps and gluteal muscles
Mismatch between the medial quadriceps muscles and the lateral quadriceps muscles strength and activation
Tight muscles and structures such as the hamstrings, iliotibial band and calf
Posture and movement biomechanics during aggravating activities, such as during running and jumping
Overuse or overload of the knee joint
Learn more about the benefits of physiotherapy treatment for runner's knee.
