Running Medicine
Runner's Knee Pain
Expert diagnosis and treatment for patellofemoral pain, IT band syndrome, and running-related lower limb injuries at I-SPORT Medical Centre, Pune.
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Common Running Knee Injuries
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Pain around the kneecap, especially on stairs and downhill
IT Band Syndrome
Lateral knee pain from iliotibial band tightness
Patellar Tendinopathy
Jumper's knee from repetitive loading
Medial Knee Pain
Pes anserine bursitis or medial plica
Why Running Injuries Occur
- Sudden increase in training volume or intensity
- Poor running mechanics or technique
- Hip and gluteal weakness causing knee valgus
- Inadequate recovery between training sessions
- Inappropriate footwear
- Running on hard surfaces without adequate conditioning
Treatment Approach
Most running knee injuries are managed non-surgically. Treatment focuses on addressing the root cause — typically a combination of training load errors, biomechanical factors, and strength deficits — rather than just treating symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is runner's knee?
Runner's knee (patellofemoral pain syndrome) refers to pain around or behind the kneecap, worsened by running, stair descent, squatting, and prolonged sitting.
How do I treat IT band syndrome?
IT band syndrome responds well to activity modification, foam rolling, hip strengthening, running gait analysis, and progressive return to running. Surgery is rarely needed.
Should I stop running with knee pain?
Not necessarily for all types of knee pain. Some conditions tolerate continued running with load modification. A specialist assessment helps determine what's safe and guides return-to-running progression.