If you’re an avid runner or engage in high-impact activities, you might be familiar with the term “runner’s knee.” This common condition, clinically known as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), can cause some serious discomfort around the kneecap and interfere with your fun activities in life. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a recreational jogger, understanding the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for runner’s knee is essential for maintaining your knee health and enjoying pain-free movement.
Runner’s knee, or PFPS, refers to a broad spectrum of knee pain experienced around the patella (kneecap) and the surrounding structures. This condition typically arises from repetitive stress or overuse of the knee joint, resulting in irritation and inflammation. While running is a common trigger for runner’s knee, it can also affect individuals who participate in activities that involve frequent bending and straightening of the knee, such as cycling, hiking, or stair climbing.
The symptoms of runner’s knee may vary in severity but often include:
While runner’s knee is commonly associated with running, individuals of all ages and fitness levels can experience this condition, particularly if they engage in repetitive movements that place stress on the knee joint.
Diagnosing runner’s knee typically involves a thorough physical examination and assessment of the individual’s medical history and activity level. Specific orthopedic tests help to evaluate knee alignment, muscle strength, and flexibility. X-rays or MRI scans may be ordered to rule out other potential causes of knee pain, such as fractures or ligament injuries.
At Life Moves MT, our practitioners are trained in the orthopedic assessments used to identify runner’s knee. Please remember that while Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) may use these results to inform their treatment plan and recommendations, or to communicate findings to the Chiropractor, LMTs cannot legally provide a diagnosis to you, the client.
Managing runner’s knee often involves a combination of conservative treatments aimed at reducing pain and inflammation while addressing underlying biomechanical factors. Some common treatment strategies include:
In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief, or if there are underlying structural issues contributing to the runner’s knee, more advanced interventions such as corticosteroid injections or surgical procedures may be considered.
Prevention is key to avoiding the recurrence of runner’s knee and maintaining knee health in the long term. As one of our favorite orthopedists likes to say, “overuse” injuries are really just “underprepared” injuries. So with that in mind, here are some preventive measures:
Maintaining a balanced exercise routine that includes strength training, flexibility exercises, and rest days to prevent “overuse” injuries. Recovery is as important if not more important than your actual training. Schedule it and commit to it with the same diligence as you do your training routine.
By understanding the underlying causes of runner’s knee and implementing appropriate preventive measures and treatment strategies, individuals can effectively manage this condition and continue to enjoy their favorite activities without knee pain. If you’re experiencing persistent knee discomfort or are unsure about the best approach to managing runner’s knee, consult with a professional for personalized guidance and support. Prioritize your knee health, stay active, and keep running strong!
