Runner’s Knee (not always caused by running!)

How can that little bone at the front of your knee cause so much grief?! As we return to our normal routines post-summer break, we start getting back into not just running, but also cycling, gym weights or pre-season sport training. This sudden increase in load can leave the front of our knees in pain, and running is not always the culprit. Most anterior knee pain will settle on its own after a few days rest, but what happens if it sticks around?

First point of call is to diagnose your anterior knee pain. The discomfort can arise from a number of structures and it is important to differentiate between these areas. The most common diagnoses are:

• Patellofemoral pain syndrome (pain underneath the knee cap)
• Patella tendinopathy 
• Quadriceps tendinopathy
• ITB Syndrome

Each of these entities requires specific treatment, and often if we treat the wrong problem, it won’t improve as quickly as we would like.

Your physiotherapist should be able to make a clear diagnosis during the initial consultation, often without the requirement for any imaging. They can then assist you with a plan to return you to activity, pain free!

If you have noticed any niggles around this area, give us a call and sort your knee pain out for good.