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Runner's Knee: Symptoms & Treatments

Keeping a healthy lifestyle may include a variety of regime’s that range from cardio exercises (running, elliptical or swimming), to a combination of cardio and strength training. Regardless of the option you choose, there is always a possibility of running into an injury that involves one of the joints that are used often.

If you are a runner, whether you choose the treadmill or prefer trail runs, your joints (specifically your knees) will take a beating over a period of time. Many times those who are runners may experience knee problems, also known as runner’s knee. Learning how to prevent this common injury may help with avoiding the pain and discomfort associated with this condition.

Read more to find out the common symptoms, causes, prevention and treatment options available for this running condition.

Causes of Runner’s Knee

Although it may seem self-explanatory what causes runner’s knee, it is not always simple. There are many reasons why someone may develop knee troubles. While some can be prevented with proper stretching and footwear, other reasoning may stem from more serious health issues that will need to be addressed by the proper doctor.

Some causes include:

  • Injury caused by a fall or direct hit to the knee
  • Overly using the joint (such as lunges, stretching)
  • Feet problems-flat feet, feet joints move more than normal or arches that have fallen
  • Weakened muscles- muscles that are not strengthen enough can cause problems to the knee, this is caused by the disproportioned movement that occurs between the thighs and the knee.

Runner’s Knee Symptoms

When it comes to the pain that one may experience with runner’s knee, it is distinctive and can be almost immediately noticeable.

Symptoms may include:

  • Popping or grinding of the knee
  • Swelling
  • Pain when bending or extending the leg (in the knee region)
  • Pain around or behind the kneecap

Chiropractic Treatment

When looking to treat the painful symptoms of runner’s knee, using chiropractic treatment may be an effective and great long-term option. The first step in treatment may include an extensive examination that may include all or some of these options: CT scan, X-ray or a MRI of the knee. After this examination, the chiropractor can determine whether using chiropractic treatment will be the best option for your knee pain.

The most common chiropractic treatment available for the knee is Trigger point therapy.  This type of treatment is a combination of massage and stretching techniques that help to alleviate tension, while allowing the patient to gain strength and endurance in the surrounding knee muscles.

Prevention

When it comes to prevention of knee injuries such as runner’s knee, there are a few key points to keep in mind when running:

These include:

  • Running on soft surfaces such as grass or a track
  • Shoes that have the correct support for your arch
  • Strengthening your thigh muscles
  • Changing running shoes when they become worn
  • Running on a gradual pace (never overexerting or trying to run distances without working up to those further distances)

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