Posted on Thursday 11, March, 2021
Anyone can experience knee pain whilst running. It does not discriminate against age or gender.
The reasons for developing pain or injury vary and may range from lack of proper warm-up or cool down, doing too much too quickly or an underlying condition.
How an osteopath may assist:
This is where we come in!
The osteopaths here at Spring Osteo will go through a thorough case history and examination. We will take a whole-body approach to your care. We will assess, not only your knees but your lower back, hips, ankles, and feet to ensure they are all working optimally.
We will also:
- Assess your running technique
- Have a look at your runners and their tread patterns
- Provide hands-on treatment which may include soft tissue release, muscle activation, joint mobilization, and manipulation
- Prescribe the appropriate management. This could be stretching, a dynamic warm-up, strengthening exercises, a running program, orthotic recommendation, or referral. It all depends on you and your goals.
Common causes of pain include:
- Poor muscle function (e.g., quad tightness or glute weakness)
- Altered biomechanics of the lower limb
- Poor foot or ankle stability
- Tight or weak hip flexors
Common injuries:
- Patella Femoral Pain Syndrome: This pain is usually near or under the kneecap and is one of the most common conditions associated with running (1).
- Plantar Fasciitis: Aggravation of the fascia running along the bottom of your foot. Commonly associated with running on hard surfaces.
- Patella Tendinopathy: Excessive strain to the patella tendon which is located just below the kneecap. It is commonly associated with prolonged running.
- Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome: Also known as ‘shin splints. Excessive strain on the tibia. This condition is usually associated with sharp or achy pain along one or both shins.
Things you can do:
- Have a plan or program. It may be boring, but it will give your body time to adapt to your new hobby
- Make sure you are wearing adequate footwear – runners that are appropriate for your foot type and aren’t a number of years old.
- Ensure you are warming up and cooling down correctly
Remember!
Individual diagnosis and management are essential. Come in and see one of our osteopaths for treatment and some advice as to how you can improve your running.
-End-
For more information:
Dr Jenna Benison, Osteopath
Spring Osteo Clinic
2/486 Whitehorse Road
Surrey Hills Vic 3127
9830 7044
[email protected]
www.springosteo.com.au
Instagram: springosteo
References:
- Jayaseelan D, Holshouser C, Mcmurray M. Functional joint mobilizations for patellofemoral pain syndrome: a clinical suggestion. Int j sports phys ther. 2020;15(4):643–649.
- Mcclinton S, Cobian D, Heiderscheit B. Physical therapist management of anterior knee pain. Current reviews in musculoskeletal medicine. 2020;13(6):776-787.