RUNNER's KNEE
Overview
The name Runner’s knee is pretty self explanatory and means the type of knee pain that is usually suffered by the runners. It is not one specific condition; instead it can be one of the many injuries suffered by the runners. They usually fall under either anterior knee pain or lateral knee pain. Though it is an ailment that is usually common amongst runners but it isn’t experienced by runners alone. It actually is a broad term that is used to describe a particular type of knee condition.Runner’s knee causes
This knee pain can be of two types; anterior and lateral. Anterior is felt in the front of your knee and lateral on the outside of your knee. The most common causes of them are,
- Problems with feet
When a person is suffering from fallen arches/flat feet, overpronation etc. the way he walks changes and that can lead to knee pain.
- Weak/unbalanced thigh muscles
The quadriceps (upper part of the thigh) keeps your kneecaps in place when you bend or stretch. If they are weak, your knee might dislocate easily. Knee dislocation may happen at a later stage but it does start paining if thigh muscles are weak and doesn’t have a strong hold over the kneecap.
- Chondromalecia patella
Cartilage under the kneecap breaks down
- Blow on the knee
- Overusing the knee and thighs that can irritate the surrounding tissues.
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Runner’s Knee Symptoms
The most common symptom is the prevalence of intense pain behind and around the kneecap or patella. Other symptoms include,
- Pain while walking, climbing stairs, running, kneeling, squatting, and sitting down and getting up.
- Swelling and popping the knee.
Knee care for runners and early treatment for runner’s knee patella is extremely essential because if prolonged, it may lead to much severe problems.
Runner’s Knee Treatment
If you visit your doctor, he will most probably ask you for a thorough history and suggest you a thorough physical examination to confirm the condition. The physical examination may include blood test, X-ray, MRI or a CT scans that can guide him about the course of runner’s knee treatment that will be most suitable.- RICE : REST----- ICE-------COMPRESSION (wrap you knee with an elastic bandage to prevent swelling)-ELEVATION (Place a pillow under your knee to prevent further swelling while sitting or lying down)
- Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen, aspirin etc.
- Once the pain subsides, do recommended exercises and physical therapy to restore knee’s strength.
- Wear runner’s knee brace, straps, or tape to provide additional support to the knee.
- Runner’s knee surgery might be taken as the option if the cartilage is damaged or if the kneecap needs to be realigned.
Effective Knee Care for Runners Tips
Following steps can be taken to prevent runner’s knee,- Increase your training gradually, do not overburden yourself at once
- Proper running shoes
- Stay in shape: Take care of your overall health, lose weight if required.
- Always have a warm-up routine before you start running. Take recommended measures to increase your knee’s flexibility and prevent irritation.