Runner's Knee
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), also known as "Runner's Knee," is the most common cause of knee pain. PFPS affects 25% of adults and 10% of young athletes. This pain is often the result of overuse of the knee in sports that require jumping or running.
About Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), also known as “Runner’s Knee,” is the most common cause of knee pain. PFPS affects 25% of adults and 10% of young athletes. PFPS describes a painful irritation of the cartilage behind your kneecap. Although anyone may be affected by PFPS, it is often the result of overuse of the knee in sports that require jumping or running.
The most common cause of PFPS is an imbalance between the muscles that help guide the kneecap in its grove. Proper kneecap tracking depends on the static and dynamic stabilizers of the hip and ankle acting in concert. Repeated flexion and extension of a misaligned kneecap leads to pain, swelling, and eventually degeneration and arthritis.
Misalignment of the kneecap is often due to the hip, ankle, or foot’s underlying issues, especially weakness in your glutes. PFPS produces dull pain behind the kneecap that is aggravated by prolonged walking, running, squatting, jumping, or stair climbing. The pain is often worse when walking downhill or down a set of stairs. If misalignment continues, damage can occur to the cartilage, causing popping and grinding.
Current research suggests patellar movement and tracking are more dependent on global lower body biomechanics than any individual knee muscle strength. As a result, it is very important to look at the body as a whole unit.
Signs & Symptoms of PFPS
- Pain in the front of the knee, specifically around or behind the kneecap (patella)
- Pain that worsens with activities that involve bending the knee
- Pain that may be described as a dull ache or sharp, stabbing sensation
- Swelling or puffiness around the knee joint
- Sensitivity or tenderness when pressing on the kneecap
- Pain during prolonged sitting with knees bent
- Popping or grinding sensation (crepitus) when moving the knee
Your Visit With us
At Crux Sport & Spine, our St. George chiropractors conduct a detailed examination of the ankle, knee, and hip to pinpoint the true source of your knee pain. To reduce pain-provoking activities, especially those involving running, jumping, or knee stress, lifestyle modifications may be recommended initially.
We then implement a unique strengthening program and muscle release techniques to retrain faulty movement patterns. By combining muscle release therapy with chiropractic care, we effectively reduce pain and improve knee function, with a particular focus on strengthening the glute muscles, crucial in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) development.
Don’t let running pain in St. George hinder your performance. Our comprehensive approach prioritizes your health, with a thorough movement-based assessment during each visit, identifying critical factors contributing to your discomfort. Through targeted muscle release techniques and chiropractic adjustments, we release muscle tension, facilitating improved movement and overall well-being.
Our care extends beyond the adjustment; we guide you to our dedicated rehab area, empowering you with personalized stretches and exercises for continued progress at home. Experience exceptional chiropractic care at Crux Sport & Spine, and take the first step towards a pain-free, healthier life by visiting us today!
knee Conditions We Treat!
- Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITB Syndrome)
- Meniscus Injury
- Knee Sprains (ACL, PCL, LCL, MCL)
- Patellar Tendonitis
- Osgood-Schlatter Disease
- Quadriceps Strai