Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Most people do not know the technical name of runner’s knee—but now you do. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is one of the most common causes of knee pain in walkers and runners, as well as activities that require repeated bending of the knee, like bicycling. Patellofemoral pain syndrome can affect one knee or both simultaneously. While repeated movements can cause runner’s knee, other causes include hypermobility, fallen arches of the feet, flat feet, muscle imbalance in the thighs and hips, misalignment of the kneecaps and femur, direct trauma to the knee, overstretched tendons, and so on.
The presence of patellofemoral pain syndrome is noted by pain, first and foremost. Other symptoms include pain the worsens when moving downstairs or downhill, swelling around the knee, and grinding or popping sensations.
Treatment is little more than resting, icing, compression, and keeping the knee elevated. Arch supports in shoes can also help correct any foot problems that might place stress on the knees.
