Runner's Knee: Diagnosis and Treatment by a Sports Physiotherapist

 What Is a Runner's Knee?

Runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), is a common condition among runners and active individuals. It causes pain around the kneecap, often worsening with activities like running, squatting, or climbing stairs. If left untreated, it can limit your mobility and keep you from performing at your best. Sports physiotherapy Spruce Grove At Sunrise Physical Therapy, our sports physiotherapists specialize in diagnosing and treating runner’s knee to help you recover quickly and prevent future injuries.

Diagnosing Runner’s Knee

A sports physiotherapist will assess your symptoms, movement patterns, and overall knee function to determine if you have a runner's knee. Common signs include:

✅ Dull, aching pain around the kneecap (especially after running or prolonged sitting)

✅ Worsening pain when descending stairs or hills

✅ Cracking or grinding sensations in the knee

✅ Swelling or tenderness around the kneecap

A thorough evaluation at Sunrise Physical Therapy includes:

🔹 Gait analysis to assess running mechanics

🔹 Strength and flexibility tests to check for muscle imbalances

🔹 Palpation and movement assessments to pinpoint pain sources

Causes of Runner’s Knee

Several factors can contribute to runner’s knee, including:

✔ Muscle imbalances – Weak quadriceps, hamstrings, or hip muscles can lead to improper kneecap tracking.

✔ Poor biomechanics – Flat feet, improper running form, or excessive pronation can put extra stress on the knee.

✔ Overuse and repetitive stress – Running long distances without proper recovery can lead to irritation.

✔ Tight iliotibial (IT) band – The IT band runs along the outside of the thigh and, when tight, can pull on the kneecap.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Runner’s Knee

At Sunrise Physical Therapy in Spruce Grove, our sports physiotherapists create personalized treatment plans to address the root cause of runner’s knee and help you return to running pain-free.

Pain Management

✅ Manual therapy and soft tissue release to reduce tension and improve knee mobility

✅ Taping techniques to support the kneecap and correct alignment

✅ Cold therapy and ultrasound therapy to decrease inflammation

Strengthening Exercises

Building strength in key muscle groups is essential for long-term recovery. Our physiotherapists focus on:

✔ Quadriceps and glutes to stabilize the knee

✔ Core strengthening for better posture and movement control

✔ Hip and calf exercises to prevent overloading the knee

Stretching and Mobility Work

Tight muscles can worsen knee pain, so we incorporate:

🔹 IT band and hip flexor stretching

🔹 Foam rolling techniques for muscle release

🔹 Ankle and hip mobility drills for better movement efficiency

Gait & Running Mechanics Correction

Improper running form can contribute to a runner's knee. Our sports physiotherapists offer:

✅ Gait analysis to identify imbalances

✅ Footwear recommendations to improve support

✅ Gradual return-to-running programs to prevent re-injury

Get Back to Running Pain-Free!

If you’re struggling with knee pain, don’t wait until it gets worse. The expert sports physiotherapists at Sunrise Physical Therapy in Spruce Grove can help you recover and prevent future injuries.

📍 Sunrise Physical Therapy, Spruce Grove

📞 Call us today to book your appointment – no referral needed!

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