Running Knee Pain Treatment 

Understanding Running Knee Pain 

Running knee pain is a common issue affecting athletes, particularly runners training to increase their running distance or improve their running time. Whether caused by repetitive strain, improper technique, or underlying conditions, this pain can significantly impact performance and daily life. Key conditions like runner’s knee, patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) superolateral Hoffa’s fat pad impingement, chondromalacia patella, and iliotibial band (IT band) syndrome are frequent culprits. By addressing these issues with tailored running knee pain treatment, runners can return safely to the activity they love. 

Symptoms of Running Knee Pain 

The symptoms of running-related knee pain often vary depending on the underlying condition. Common signs include: 
 
Pain around or behind the kneecap (patella) 
Swelling and inflammation in the knee joint 
A grinding or clicking sensation during movement 
Tenderness along the iliotibial band on the outer aspect of your knee 
Difficulty with activities like squats, kneeling, or climbing stairs 
Persistent discomfort, particularly after long runs. 
 
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, seeking early treatment is essential to prevent complications like chondromalacia patella or patellar tendonitis. 

Common Causes and Injuries 

Running knee pain often arises from a combination of factors, including overuse, poor technique, or inadequate recovery. Common knee injuries and causes include: 
 
Runner’s knee (PFPS): 
Caused by improper alignment or tracking of the kneecap cartilage 
 
Iliotibial band syndrome: 
Inflammation of the band running along the outer thigh 
 
Chondromalacia patella: 
Softening or damage to the articular cartilage behind the kneecap 
 
Meniscus tear or medial collateral ligament (MCL) strain: Often due to sudden twists or impacts 
 
Patellar tendonopathy: Strain on the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone causing it to swell or hurt. 
 
Muscle weakness: Imbalances in the thigh muscles, hamstrings, gluteal muscles, calf muscles or foot support muscles. 

Diagnosis and Treatment Options 

An accurate diagnosis is vital to creating an effective treatment plan for running knee pain. Dr Imbuldeniya and his multidisciplinary team of specialists at The West London Knee & Hip Clinic use advanced assessments to identify the root cause of your pain, including knee stress tests, imaging, and physical evaluations. 
 
Nonsurgical Treatments 
 
We focus on conservative, natural and non surgical treatments wherever possible to help you recover without invasive procedures. These include: 
Rest and Activity Modification 
Reducing high-impact activities like running allows the knee joint to heal. 
 
Physiotherapy 
Tailored physiotherapy strengthens thigh muscles, corrects poor knee tracking, and improves flexibility in tight hamstrings and the iliotibial band. 
 
Dietary modifications 
Including advice on what to eat, ant-inflammatory foods, helpful vitamins, minerals and other supplements that help knee pain. 
 
Orthotics and Support 
Custom orthotics and knee braces can alleviate knee stress and support alignment during activity. 
 
Pain Management 
Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and other NSAIDs help reduce pain and inflammation. 

Exercises for Recovery 

Targeted exercises will help strengthen the knee and surrounding structures. Examples include: 
 
Squats: 
To improve thigh muscles and knee stability 
 
Hamstring and calf stretches: 
To relieve tightness and prevent further injury 
 
Heel raises: 
To strengthen the foot and lower leg muscles 
 
Patellar glide and tracking exercises: 
To correct kneecap alignment. 
 
Our physiotherapists will guide you through a program suited to your condition, including advanced techniques for patellar maltracking or cartilage damage. 

When Surgery Is Necessary 

In severe cases, such as persistent patellofemoral instability or extensive damage to the knee joint, surgical treatments like arthroscopy or knee osteotomy may be recommended. These procedures aim to restore proper alignment, repair damaged cartilage, and ensure long-term functionality. 

Prevention Tips for Runners 

Preventing knee pain begins with a proactive approach to training and recovery: 
 
Use proper running shoes with adequate support. 
Gradually increase activity levels to avoid overuse injuries. 
Incorporate cross-training and low-impact activities like swimming or cycling. 
Practice regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the knee joint and thigh bone. 

Book Your Consultation 

If running knee pain is holding you back, our specialists at The West London Knee & Hip Clinic are here to help. Whether you’re dealing with runner’s knee, patellofemoral pain syndrome, or other knee injuries, we offer expert care tailored to your needs. Book a consultation today to discuss your symptoms and explore personalised running knee pain treatment options designed to get you back on track.