Knee Pain

Runner’s knee is especially prevalent in, but not limited to, runners. As the foot make initial contact with the ground during the gait cycle, the knee must be stabilized through a series of muscle contractions in the entire lower extremity. Runner’s knee occurs when abnormal, repetitive running gait mechanics cause inflammation of the tissues in the front or outside of the knee. While runner’s knee can be multifactorial in nature, it usually has a component in which the runner has a reduction of lateral glute stability, leading to dynamic valgus and compression at the outside of knee when in the stance phase running. A reduction in ankle dorsiflexion mobility or foot stability can also contribute to the aggravation of the tissues along the front or outside of the knee.

Since the biomechanics of running include more than just the muscles surrounding your knee, your treatment must cover your entire lower extremity. As a runner/ athlete, many people forget the importance of the mobility and stability in your hip. If this fails or fatigues at any point during your training session or run, the compression forces may increase at your knee joint. This may cause a change in your mechanics causing inflammation and leading to pain. This plan is meant to strengthen your lower extremity, decrease your knee pain, and progress you towards your next phase