Most joggers with knee pain have common conditions. Usually modifications to a training program will allow one to keep jogging. To be determine and correct the cause of the knee pain, it is important to describe it. Presence or absence of swelling, location of pain and the movements that cause pain help classify the cause. Prior knee injuries or sudden pain suggest different diagnoses then a gradual onset of pain related to jogging.
Patella Femoral Pain
Patella femoral pain is in the front of the knee. American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation calls this condition "runner's knee." It is worse with stair climbing, hill running, and sitting with knees flexed. A breakdown of cartilage is on the patella surface. Patella femoral pain is worsened by the knee landing in a knock-knee position during running and muscle imbalance. It affects females more than males. Stretching hamstrings, correcting muscle imbalances by strengthening exercises, proper shoe wear and modifying running mechanics alleviate this problem in most runners.
IT Band
Pain on the outside of the knee or lateral knee in runners is often due to the IT, iliotibial, band being irritated by rubbing against the femoral condyle. This often occurs on the inside knee when jogging around small tracks. Running on an inclined road shoulder can also cause IT band pain. The IT band runs from the hip down to the tibia. Modifying running routes and stretching are the treatments for this pain, according to AAPMR.
Arthritis
Arthritis can be due to damage from an injury or uneven load on the knee. In the Dec. 25, 2009 issue of "Time" magazine, Adi Narayan reported that lifelong runners are no more or less likely than non-runners to have arthritis. Many older runners have some arthritis. Joggers with previous injuries to their knees may be more likely to have arthritis. Running on softer surfaces, different running shoes, strengthening muscles and adjusting running form usually allow continued jogging.
Hip And Ankle
Hip or ankle problems can cause knee pain. If the ankle and foot have abnormal motion during gait, pain can be felt in the knee. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, pain from a hip injury can be felt in the knee.
Seek Medical Attention
Swelling, severe pain and unexplained bruising about the knee are signs that a jogger should seek medical attention per AAOS. Ligament damage, meniscal tears, and arthritis cause swelling. Redness and swelling can indicate an infection. MayoClinic. com clinic states if there is pain even at rest, it may be a stress fracture. Typically bone bruises or stress fracture present with pain that is worsened by impact.
References
- American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Runners of All Types Prone to Injury
- MayoClinic.com: Stress Fractures
- "Time": Study: Running Not so Bad for Your Joints After All
- "AAOS Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review"; J. Lieberman; 2009
