If you have runners knee, getting treatment can relieve your symptoms and allow you to return to your normal activity level. Treatment options for runners knee vary considerably depending on the nature and severity of the problem. Below, we will take a look at some of the most common treatment options.
About Runners Knee
Runners knee is common among runners, as well as with other activities involving repetitive knee motions, such as jumping, walking, or biking. Runners knee is not a single condition, but rather a term referring to a number of overuse injuries that cause pain in the front of the knee. The pain can range from mild to severe.
Certain risk factors increase a person’s chance of developing runner’s knee, including:
- Not stretching enough
- Misalignment of the kneecap
- Flat feet
- Improper form when running
- Training that causes the thigh muscles to develop in an imbalanced manner
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Runners Knee
Most of the time, non-surgical treatment options are effective at relieving inflammation and allowing the knee to heal. Some of the most common medications include:
- Rest – Avoiding putting weight on your knee can help ease symptoms and relieve inflammation, but in the long run beginning to use the knee again will be essential for your recovery.
- Ice – Icing the knee can bring down pain and swelling. Icing should be performed for 20-30 minute periods every 3-4 hours for up to 3 days.
- Elevation – When you are sitting or lying down, elevate your knee on a pillow, preferably high enough so that your knee is higher than the level of your heart. Be sure to use pillows to fully support your knee and ankle when it is elevated.
- Compression – Compress the knee with a sleeve, elastic bandage, or patellar straps to provide extra support.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – Drugs like Aleve and Advil can relieve pain and inflammation. Do not take NSAIDs or any other medication on a long-term basis without talking to your doctor first; unless otherwise instructed, NSAIDs should be used only occasionally.
- Shoe orthotics – If you have flat feet or tend to use improper running form, orthotic inserts for your shoes can support your feet and improve your overall alignment.
- Physical therapy – Stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore function to the knee. You should start out by seeing a physical therapist in most cases, but you should continue to perform the exercises you learn every day in the long run.
Surgical Treatment Options
In severe cases, cartilage damage or problems with the position of the kneecap may not respond to non-surgical treatments. In such cases, surgical treatment options for runners knee should be considered. Damaged cartilage can usually be addressed through minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, but kneecap misalignment may require open knee surgery.
Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your knee health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.