A number of conditions can cause you to have pain in your knees and upper legs after running. You may have a pinched nerve that causes the discomfort to radiate throughout your limbs or you may have joint pain from using incorrect techniques or from overuse. Tendonitis, strains, infection or hip disorders can lead to hip and leg pain. The continuous impact your legs and knees receive from running may be at the root of your problems.
Overuse
Stop running for a couple of days and see if your pain disappears. Elevate your leg and apply ice to the sore areas. Sleep with a pillow or rolled blanket under your affected leg. According to Medline Plus, if a couple of days of rest and over-the-counter anti-inflammation medication such as ibuprofen relieve the pain, then you're probably overdoing it. Reduce the duration of your runs and concentrate on building strength to prevent further overuse pain. If rest and home care don't resolve your pain, you may have other complications that should be diagnosed by a physician.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
A common knee problem experienced by runners is called patellofemoral pain syndrome. The condition causes pain in and under your kneecap that radiates to your upper leg. One clue that this is the cause of your discomfort is if you experience the pain after you've been sitting for an extended period of time as well as after running. According to the doctors at the American Academy of Family Physicians at Family Doctor.org, there is no known cause of the condition. They suspect it's a genetic deformity that causes your knee bone to move incorrectly in the socket. Exercises that strengthen your quadriceps, hips and calves can alleviate the pain. Stretching before and after your run is another tool that can keep the pain at bay.
Sciatica
The sciatic nerve is the main nerve that runs down your leg from the back of your hip to your calf. When damaged or irritated, the nerve can cause significant pain while you're running and after you've stopped. It's usually the result of a slipped or herniated disc in your back. The pain associated with sciatica ranges from severe and sudden to a dull throb or numbness when you're running. You might experience the pain only after you stop running and sit down in a certain position or when you stretch. Massage or spinal manipulation may relieve the symptoms, or you may have to undergo surgery.
Runner's Knee
It's called runner's knee because it is a condition that commonly develops in runners and athletes who participate in high-impact sports, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. You'll notice a dull ache around your kneecap and up the front of your thigh after running when you walk up steps or squat. The pain also appears after you've been sitting for a while. A number of factors contribute to the severity of runner's knee, including flat feet or a torn tendon or ligament. Your kneecap might be misaligned or dislocated. A physical exam and X-rays usually help your doctor diagnose the cause of the pain so he can determine what of corrective measures you need.
