Runner's knee or patellofemoral pain syndrome can strike a new runner or it can nag a runner with years of running history. Misalignment of the foot and leg results in knee pain. Wearing the wrong running shoes can contribute to or cause runner's knee while wearing the right running shoes can alleviate it. Fortunately runner's knee is seldom a serious injury and it can be overcome.
How Running Causes Runner's Knee
Do you have flat feet or are your arches more pronounced? Do your feet and ankles roll inward? Over pronation allows the foot to roll inward and is most common in people with flat feet or with low arches. These questions are easily answered by looking at the sole of your everyday shoes or a pair of well used running shoes.
Streets are designed to crown at the center and slope toward the outside. Add in a hill or two and the body is forced to compensate for the unlevel surface which can result in knee pain.
Running too fast too soon can cause knee pain while a slower pace and slight mileage increases of 10 percent at a time heads off knee pain. Weak muscles that surround the knee are susceptible to overuse injuries.
Right Running Shoes Can Prevent Runner's Knee
Motion control running shoes are designed for runners who over pronate. They are more rigid than a neutral running shoe and have support built into the midsole ensuring that your stride follows through correctly.
List your shoe preferences and look for a model that most meets those preferences.
Nike running shoes are good for runners with narrow heels and who like a smaller toe box. They tend to be a little shorter than some other shoes so try them on before making a purchase.
New Balance running shoes are good for runners with a hard-to-fit foot. They offer an enormous range of sizes and widths.
Asics running shoes tend to be light and flexible.
Saucony running shoes are good for heavier runners. They are well cushioned and durable.
Brooks running shoes pleases women with their combination of a wider toe box and a narrow heel.
Adidas running shoes are flexible and provide an arch support for those that need it.
Ryka running shoes are designed specifically for women. The heels are narrow and the toe box is wider. Ryka midsoles are flexible as well as being cushioned. The heel is cushioned to reduce the impact as you strike the ground.
Examine Running Shoes and Running Surfaces to Diagnose Runner's Knee
Take your old running, walking or street shoes with you when shopping for a pair of running shoes. Try on several pairs of different brands to get the fit that is right for you. Knee pain may be caused from conditions other than a new pair of running shoes. If after adjusting your workout the knee pains continues, check in with a sports medicine doctor or try a different pair of running shoes.
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