08 Oct How to Avoid Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain)
How to Avoid Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain) – Orthopedist in Nassau County
The knee is a rather unique joint since it’s active in most of our movements that involve the lower body. When you experience pain in the knee (also known as patellofemoral pain) it can negatively impact your quality of life. The reason for this is because our knees are used frequently throughout the day and any form of pain can steadily become tiresome. This is primarily the case if you’re a runner since running can put copious amounts of stress on your knees. If you have been experiencing chronic pain in your knee, click here to schedule an appointment at Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation and request an orthopedist in Nassau County.
What is Runner’s Knee?
Runner’s knee is a commonly experienced condition among runners, hence the name. It often is caused by overuse of the knee, but can also be the result of weak knee muscles or previous injury to the patellofemoral cap. Symptoms include the following:
Pain upon movements such as:
- Squatting
- Kneeling
- Jumping
- Climbing
- Sitting for a long period of time
How Can I Avoid Runner’s Knee?
To avoid patellofemoral pain, take the following steps and keep your knees healthy:
- Warm up before physical activity.
- Make sure that your body is in the proper physical condition for extended activity.
- Consider asking an orthopedist in Nassau County about exercises to correct an improper gait and strengthen the muscles around the knee.
How is Runner’s Knee Treated?
To give a proper diagnosis, an orthopedic specialist may order an MRI, CT scan or an X-ray to get a better look at your knee. After ruling out all other possible conditions, you may be given a diagnosis of runner’s knee. In this case, treatment usually requires the following steps to be taken:
- Knee supports can be worn to ease the pain and take pressure off the knee.
- Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may temporarily reduce pain associated with runner’s knee.
- Surgery offers more permanent relief.
- An orthopedist can perform the following surgical procedures to help relieve your pain:
Arthroscopy
- A surgical procedure that is done to remove pieces of damaged cartilage in the knee.
Realignment of the knee
- This is another surgical procedure that is done to reposition the kneecap, relieving some of the pressure from the cartilage.
For an orthopedist in Nassau County that offers the aforementioned treatments, contact Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation to request an appointment.
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