Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is the most common cause of knee pain in the general population.
Runner's knee will affect an estimated 25% of adults.
Runner's Knee, clinically known as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), is a common condition that manifests as pain around or behind the kneecap, particularly during knee bending.
It affects not only runners but also individuals engaged in activities requiring repetitive knee motion, such as cycling, hiking, or prolonged sitting.
Common Causes of RUnner's Knee
Overuse and Overtraining: Engaging in intense or prolonged physical activity without proper rest and recovery can lead to Runner's Knee. This is especially true for avid runners who may be pushing their limits without giving their bodies adequate time to adapt.
Muscular Imbalances: Weakness or imbalances in the muscles surrounding the knee, particularly the quadriceps and hamstrings, can lead to misalignment of the kneecap, causing friction and pain.
Improper Biomechanics: Issues with the alignment and movement of the knee joint can contribute to PFPS. This may be due to factors like flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait patterns.
Inadequate Footwear: Wearing worn-out or ill-fitting shoes can alter the way your foot strikes the ground, putting extra stress on the knees.
Trauma or Injury: A direct blow to the knee, a fall, or a sudden change in direction can lead to Runner's Knee.
Treatment for Runner's Knee
Saskatoon chiropractors and physiotherapists play a vital role in diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating runner's knee. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and possess various techniques to address such injuries effectively.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractors, like those at E3 Chiropractic + Wellness, use a holistic approach to healing. They focus on restoring proper joint motion and function to the body, helping to alleviate pain and promote healing. Chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapies, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, and rehabilitative exercises are commonly used to treat Runner's Knee.
Chiropractors can significantly reduce recovery time and prevent future injuries by addressing underlying biomechanical imbalances and promoting optimal healing conditions.
Physiotherapy Care
Physiotherapists, also available at E3 Chiropractic + Wellness, specialize in rehabilitating and restoring movement. They employ various therapeutic techniques to promote healing, including stretching exercises, manual therapy, dry needling, and customized rehabilitation programs. By tailoring treatment plans to the individual's specific needs, physiotherapists aim to reduce pain, restore strength and flexibility, and improve overall functionality.
Collaborative Care at E3 Chiropractic + Wellness
At E3 Chiropractic + Wellness, the emphasis is on collaborative care. Both chiropractors and physiotherapists work together to provide comprehensive treatment plans for conditions like Runner's Knee. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive the best of both worlds, benefiting from the expertise of multiple healthcare professionals.
We Can Help
Runner's Knee can be a frustrating setback for anyone with an active lifestyle, but with the right care and guidance, it's entirely manageable
If you are experiencing knee pain, schedule an appointment with E3 Chiropractic + Wellness today. Based on our exam findings, we will tailor a treatment plan specifically for your needs to get you out of pain and prevent knee pain from happening again in the future.