Arthritis affects mobility and quality of life, particularly in weight-bearing joints like hips and knees. Proper weight control, exercise, and flexibility can help preserve joint health and slow disease progression.

Runner’s knee occurs when the knee’s soft tissues or the patella (kneecap) become irritated or inflamed. It is common in athletes but can also affect non-athletes who engage in repetitive movements or have imbalances in muscle strength or flexibility. The pain can range from mild to severe, and it typically worsens with activity.

A key factor in developing runner’s knee is muscle weakness or imbalance. The muscles surrounding the knee, including the quadriceps and hamstrings, play a crucial role in stabilizing the joint. If these muscles are weak or not balanced, the knee may not move correctly, leading to pain and discomfort.

The initial treatment for runner’s knee focuses on reducing pain and inflammation. C. Michael Granade, M.D., an orthopaedic surgeon, who specializes in primary and revision hip and knee replacements at Louisville Hip & Knee Institute, recommends decreasing activities that strain the knee, such as running or jumping, to initiate recovery.

As Dr. Granade explains, “We normally decrease the activity that is causing the patient’s pain as well as get them in a good physical therapy program to work on strengthening and balancing out their muscles.”

• Rest and Ice: Reducing activity and applying ice to the knee helps manage pain and inflammation.
• Activity Modification: Replacing high-impact exercises with low-impact alternatives like cycling or swimming, can allow healing without further strain.
• Pain Management: Use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) under a doctor’s guidance to control pain and swelling.

Physical therapy is crucial in treating runner’s knee. A physical therapist guides patients through exercises that strengthen knee-supporting muscles, improving stability and preventing future injuries.

Key exercises may include:

• Quadriceps Strengthening: Strong quadriceps help stabilize the knee and reduce strain on the joint.
• Hamstring and Calf Stretching: Stretching these muscles can improve flexibility and prevent tightness that may contribute to misalignment.
• Hip and Core Exercises: Strengthening the hips and core improves overall movement patterns and reduces the burden on the knees.

Once the pain is under control and the knee has regained strength, the next step is gradually returning to activity. The goal is to reintroduce the movements and exercises that caused pain, but at a pace the knee can tolerate. This approach helps prevent re-injury and ensures that recovery is progressing at a safe pace.

Key Considerations for a Successful Return:

• Pace Yourself: Begin with low-impact activities, incrementally increasing intensity.
• Monitor Pain: If pain returns, take a step back and allow more time for recovery.
• Avoid Overuse: Focus on balancing activity with rest to give your knee ample time to recover.

By taking a gradual approach, patients can minimize the risk of re-aggravating the injury and ensure a more complete recovery.

Treating runner’s knee requires a combination of activity modification, physical therapy, and a gradual return to sports or regular activities. With the right treatment plan, most individuals can recover and return to their normal routines without pain. If you are struggling with a runner’s knee, consult an orthopaedic specialist who can tailor a treatment plan suited to your needs.

For more information on runner’s knee treatment and to schedule a consultation with Louisville Hip & Knee Institute website.