Overview
Runners, jumpers, and other athletes such as skiers, cyclists, and soccer players put heavy stress on their knees. Runner’s knee is a term used to refer to a number of medical conditions that cause pain around the front of the knee (patellofemoral pain). These conditions include anterior knee pain syndrome, patellofemoral malalignment, and chondromalacia patella.
Causes
Malalignment of the kneecap
Complete or partial dislocation
Injury
Tightness, imbalance, or weakness of thigh muscles
Flat feet
Irritation of the soft tissues around the front of the knee
Symptoms
Dull, aching pain under or around the front of the kneecap where it connects with the lower end of the thigh bone
Pain that occurs when walking up or down stairs, kneeling, squatting, and sitting with a bend knee for a long period of time
Diagnosis
Physical examination and medical history consultation
X-rays
MRI
CT scan
Blood tests
Treatment
RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
Physical therapy
Taping or bracing the kneecap
Orthotics
Surgery