With more and more people taking up running for exercise, it is helpful to be familiar with some of the common knee problems that develop in runners. Patellofemoral Stress Syndrome (PFSS) accounts for about 30 percent of running injuries. It is characterized by dull knee pain located 'behind the kneecap.' It has a gradual onset and is usually made worse with going up and down stairs and down hill running. Frequently, there is also pain and stiffness after prolonged sitting. PFSS is treated with anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy to correct misalignment, strengthen specific muscles and stretch tight tissues.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) is another common running injury that often occurs with running on banked surfaces, downhill running or overstriding. It can also occur with rapid increases in mileage. Pain in ITBS is frequently better at rest only to get worse again while running, particularly downhill running. It is characterized by sharp pain on the outside of the knee. Treatment consists of anti-inflammatory medication and iliotibial band stretches.
Patellar tendonitis is a third common running injury. Pain and tenderness are localized to the area below the kneecap. It is worse with going up and down stairs and jumping. Squatting with heavy weights and misalignment of the kneecap can also contribute to patellar tendonitis. It is treated with relative rest -- backing down on intensity and mileage -- as well as avoiding stairs and limiting squats and leg presses. Quadriceps exercises, NSAIDS, a patellar stabilizer brace and occasionally in-shoe orthotics can also be helpful.
If you have concerns about a knee problem, you are welcome to make an appointment at the Student Health Center Sports Medicine Clinic.
Editor's Note: Dr. Graden is Board-certified in Family Practice and Sports Medicine. He is an alumnus of BYU and completed his medical degree at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. He comes to BYU from Southwest Missouri State University where he was on the staff of Taylor Health and Wellness Center, and a team physician. He was an adjunct faculty member and served on the advisory boards for the departments of Physical Therapy and Physician Assistant Studies.