Top 5 Causes Of Running Knee Pain

May 22, 2024

Most runners complain of knee pain at some point in their career. Yes, running is addictive but the consequenses of overtraining are usually unavoidable. Here are our top 5 causes of knee pain in runners are:

1. Runner's Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

Patellofemoral pain syndrome causes pain on and around the kneecap. Specifically, the cause is the kneecap rubbing against the thigh bone underneath. Symptoms include a dull, aching pain that worsens when you run, squat, or climb stairs.

2. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)

ITBS is inflammation of the iliotibial band, a ligament that runs along the outside of the thigh. It originates on the outside of the hip at the tensor fascia latae muscle and inserts just below the outside of the knee. Specifically, when you run, it rubs on the outside of the knee knee. As a result, it becomes painful and inflamed.

Symptoms consist of sharp pain on the outside of the knee, often worsening with continued running.

3. Meniscal Injury

A meniscal or cartilage injury is damage to the meniscus cartilage that acts as a cushion between the shinbone and the thighbone. It is a common acute injury in football and other contact sports. However, in runners, overuse is often the cause.

Symptoms consist of pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee, often accompanied by a clicking or locking sensation.

4. Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper's Knee)

Patellar tendonitis is inflammation or injury to the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone. However, most chronic cases are degeneration (wear and tear) of the tendon, not acute information. Therefore, the term Patellar tendinopathy is better to describe the condition.

Specifically, obvious symptoms are pain and tenderness at the base of the kneecap, which becomes worse with activity.

5. Osteoarthritis

This is degeneration of knee joint, specifically cartilage and bone. It is usually from wear and tear as you age. However, you can accelete the process with overuse, especially when running.

Symptoms are persistent knee pain, stiffness, and swelling, typically worsening after activity or prolonged periods of inactivity.

Summary

Causes of knee pain in runners are often due to overuse, improper running techniques, training methods, inadequate footwear, or insufficient stretching and strengthening exercises. If you have knee pain get a proper diagnosis and treatment, including rest, physical therapy.

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