What is Runners’ knee?

Runner’s knee or patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a condition that is characterized by pain around or under the patella (kneecap). Although the term runner’s knee is used, this injury is not unique to the running population and there are many other activities that could lead to this condition. It is a non-traumatic injury that is caused by activities that load the knee joint including squatting, running, performing stairs and other functional activities. Symptoms of runner’s knee may occur due to poor biomechanics during these activities, muscle weakness or imbalances surrounding the knee joint. Individuals who experience runner’s knee may complain of pain during or after aggravating activities.

How can I treat runner’s knee?

The combination of hip and knee targeted exercises has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving function in individuals who experience runner’s knee. These should include focusing on the quadriceps and gluteal muscles and can be in weight bearing (ex. squats) or non weight bearing (ex. seated knee extension). Exercises should be performed at a manageable pain level and the return to full physical activities should be gradual. Working with a medical professional can assist with knowing what exercises are safe to perform and what symptoms are acceptable to feel during activity. A physiotherapist will create a treatment plan with specific exercises that targets the reason for your symptoms and help you appropriately return to your physical activities. The goals of treatment are to decrease your pain, improve the strength of the muscles surrounding the knee joint and improve your biomechanics so your body can more efficiently perform the activities that you enjoy.

Prevention of runner’s knee – Running assessment

Like suggested in the name, a lot of runners experience symptoms of runner’s knee. Having a running assessment can be a valuable way to identify key factors that can be contributing to your knee pain. This includes evaluating your running gait on a treadmill and the strength of specific muscle groups that are important for running performance. Research suggests alterations to foot strike and cadence are just a few ways to manage runner’s knee symptoms. LiveActive downtown now offers the Live to Run program which is designed to assess dysfunction, treat or prevent injury, and improve your running performance. Individuals are provided with a report that highlights their unique deficiencies and ensures each runner is equipped with the tools necessary to run safely. The program is designed for runners of all skill
levels and experience.

Conclusion

Runner’s knee is one of the most common reasons for knee pain in an active population and if not managed, it can lead to prolonged symptoms and poorer function. However, symptoms are manageable and preventable through physiotherapy and exercise. The team at LiveActive are well prepared to assess and treat individuals with runner’s knee and we look forward to providing you with the highest quality care.