Runner's Knee (patellofemoral syndrome-PFS)

Dr. Andrea Johnson-Davis, PT, DPT, MS

One of the most common injuries to plague runners young and old is anterior knee pain — pain at the front of the knee. Pain in the knee can be one of the most debilitating conditions experienced by anyone, but even more so for that of a runner. Runners knee, or PFS (Patello-femoral syndrome), is categorized by symptoms that include knee pain with stairs, knee pain walking up inclines, knee pain with squatting, knee pain with walking, knee pain when transferring sit to stand, knee pain and stiffness after prolonged sitting, and of course knee pain during/after running.

There are many reasons why patients experience anterior knee pain. Some of which include hamstring tightness, quadriceps muscle weakness, weak core muscles, over-pronation, and tight lateral patellar retinaculum (ligaments at the outside of the knee). When treating PFS, it is important to determine what deficits are present prior to initiating treatment. A physical therapist can do this for you. STAR Physical Therapists have over 100 combined years of experience and are available to answer questions regarding anterior knee pain.

If you are attempting to self-treat, here are some suggestions:
1. STRETCH — be sure you are stretching both your quad and hamstrings regularly. Most research indicates a minimum of a 30 second hold is necessary for gaining muscle flexibility. We recommend stretching both before and after activity. Stretch each leg, 1 at a time, holding for 30 seconds and then repeating the stretch 5 times prior to changing legs.

2. STRENGTHEN — good, strong quads are needed to correct any knee problem. Specifically, the VMO. The VMO is the inside portion of your quad muscle. One of its jobs is to keep the kneecap in good alignment during all activities. If the VMO is not doing it's job, the kneecap will slide around and most likely cause some irritation and pain in the knee.

3. ANTI-INFLAMMATORIES — take anti-inflammatory medication only as directed by your physician.

We here at STAR Physical Therapy have years of experience diagnosing and treating anterior knee pain. If you are suffering from knee pain, call us, we can help! Please feel free to contact our office directly via email by using mtlaurel@starpt.net. We look forward to hearing from you.

Health and happiness to all!