Runner´s Knee
Reprinted from:
Trackcoach.com
What is it?
Chondromalacia of the patella refers to the softening of the
cartilage of the kneecap. The cartilage in our knees relies upon
intermittent compression to squeeze out waste products and then
allow nutrients to enter the cartilage from the synovial fluid
of the joint. When you run, certain mechanical conditions may
predispose you to a mistracking kneecap. Portions of the
cartilage may then be under too much or too little pressure and
the appropriate intermittent compression that is needed for
waster removal and nutrition supply may not be present. This may
result in cartilage deterioration, which at the knee usually
occurs on the medial aspect or inner part of the kneecap. Pain
is usually felt after sitting for a long period of time with the
knees bent. Running downhill and sometimes even walking
downstairs can be followed by pain.
Runner’s knee is caused by several factors, including a high
quadriceps angle, wide hips (female runners), knock knees (genu
valgum), subluxating patella, high patella, small medial pole of
patella or corresponding portion of the femur, weak vastus
medialis, and pronation of the feet. Most often, week quadriceps
muscles will be the problem, as they do not absorb a sufficient
amount of the impact or running, passing down the impact onto
the knees.
- How to prevent or treat it?
- Decrease running stress.
- Straight leg lifts.
- Stretch tight posterior muscles
- Use running shoes with extra support.
- Consider using orthotics
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