Patellofemoral Syndrome, “Runner’s Knee”

Causes, Symptoms & Treatment of Runner’s Knee Pain

What is Patellofemoral Syndrome?

  • Patellofemoral Syndrome: Pain in the front of the knee
    • Pain is localized around the kneecap
    • Also known as “Runner’s Knee
  • Occurs mainly in athletes and teens, but can affect any age gap depending on activity, etc.

Causes of Patellofemoral Syndrome?

  • Misaligned kneecap (Patellar Tracking Disorder)
  • Overuse: High Impact Sports: Running. Basketball
  • Weak Adductors (inner thigh muscles) and tight calf muscles
  • Repeated or direct stress on the knee (ie: running on concrete)

Symptoms of Patellofemoral Syndrome?

  • Knee pain when sitting, squatting or jumping
  • Knee buckling: knee gives out unexpectedly
  • Crepitus: Cracking sounds or Popping sensation in your knee when walking

Treatment for Patellofemoral Syndrome?

  • Avoid bent knee exercises (ie: squats, deep knee lunges)
  • Custom Foot Orthotics
    • Decreases compressive forces/stress and impact on the knee joint- “Shock Absorption”
    • Improves lower leg and knee alignment thus reducing soft tissue strain on the knee – “Increased Stability”
  • Massage Therapy
    • Cross fiber friction massage around the Patellar Tendon, quads and ITB (ilio-tibial band)
    • Quadricep Stretch: Stretching of the Rectus Femoris Muscle (front of the thigh)

Related information: 

  • Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITB Syndrome)
  • Sports Massage Therapy: Iliotibial Band Syndrome Treatment
  • Are you starting to train for a Marathon?

Come into our East Vancouver Wellness Centre

Come in for a Computerized GaitScan Analysis and Postural Assessment with our Vancouver Chiropractor Dr. Farrah Jiwa and find out if Custom Foot Orthotics could benefit you. There are multiple benefits that these custom inserts offer individuals, including relief from Plantar Fasciitis, Bunions, Shin Splints, lower back pain and more! Check out our website for more information here.

2917 Hebb Avenue Vancouver BC

Phone: 604-876-9977                Email: info@backsinaction.ca

 

Reference: 

 http://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthtopics/content.asp?hwid=tp22235spec