How Physical Therapy can Help Runners Knee

Runner’s knee also known as Patellofemoral pain is a common injury in athletes. This is could be due to an overuse of the structures around the kneecap causing pain in the knee. This can sometimes make it painful to even walk.

The reason for the initial injury could be a result of poor training technique, bad posture and muscle imbalances such as: weak, tight or shortened muscles and muscles stronger in respect to the opposite weaker muscles in the knee or stiffness in the joints above and below the knee. Weak inner Quadriceps muscles (VMO), hip abductors, external rotators, and gluteal muscles could cause the limb to adduct and internally rotate, with weight bearings, which affects the tracking of the kneecap (patella), also the tight IT band, hamstrings and the hip flexors could lead to improper patella tracking mechanism.  Additionally, poor ankle/foot mechanics can also cause runner’s knee. The pain is most noticeable at night, in the morning, or with prolonged sitting due to immobility which leads to inflammation of the cartilage beneath the kneecap. If left untreated you could begin to hear clicking (crepitus) with movements of the knee, leading to erosion of the cartilage behind the patella.

At Enhanced Physical Therapy we have programs and regimens for conditions such as Runner’s knee.  The trained professionals at Enhanced Physical Therapy will perform a systematic evaluation and develop a plan of care to help with a permanent recovery. Treatment for this condition includes stretching, strengthening the muscles, joint mobilization and the use of various other modalities.

Keep in mind that runner’s knee is the overuse of the knee so the goal is not short-term but long-term treatment.  Dr. Kurian not only cures the injured area, but more importantly finds the cause to prevent future injury. Dr. Kurian, has over 15 years of clinical experience and has specialized in orthopedic and sports physical therapy. He is the first Certified Mulligan practitioner in Long Island NY, and his knowledge and expertise will help reduce the pain and inflammation of your knee and get you back to running in no time because here at Enhanced Physical therapy, we believe that excellent care starts with compassion for our patients.