Runner's Knee Treatment
Runners and athletes that run as part of their sport put excessive stress on the knee. There are a few different knee injuries and conditions that are referred to as “runner’s knee” due to the common affliction among runners. One of these conditions is chondromalacia patella, caused by wear and tear on the cartilage under the kneecap from overuse or stress in the knee joint. Our sports injury and orthopedic physicians at DOCS Health offer runner’s knee treatment at our Los Angeles medical center.
Causes and Symptoms of Chondromalacia Patella
The underside of the patella, or kneecap, is covered with cartilage to allow it to slide smoothly over the knee joint without causing friction. Stress, repetitive use and other factors can contribute to the cartilage on the kneecap softening and breaking down (chondromalacia patella), resulting in more friction, inflammation and pain in the knee. Individuals who are at higher risk include those who are in their teenage years (especially females), overweight or with previous kneecap injuries. Runners and running athletes are particularly at high risk.
Symptoms of runner’s knee can begin slowly as the cartilage softens and deteriorates. Dull pain below, behind and around the edges of the patella is the most common symptom. The knee pain may be accompanied by a grinding sensation when performing the following activities:
- Deep knee bends or squats
- Running downhill
- Descending stairs
- Standing after periods of sitting or rest
Runner’s knee treatment is usually conservative and non-invasive. Rest, ice and using OTC pain relievers is the first course of action. In some cases, physical therapy, custom orthotics and supportive devices can be used if the pain continues.
If you have knee pain or runner’s knee, treatment is available at DOCS Health. Contact our orthopedic practice today to schedule an appointment. Our sports injury physicians can diagnose and treat chondromalacia patella at our orthopedic clinic in Los Angeles.
Doctors who treat this condition
Unless otherwise indicated, the physician is a member of DOCS Health Medical Group and has medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both. Physicians denoted with an asterisk (*) are independent physicians who are not part of DOCS Health Medical Group, but do have medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both.