Runners Knee

This is a knee pain condition which presents as pain on the outside of the knee joint. It is commonly seen in distance runners or winter training where increase in distance is involved.

The knee pain is generally eased with rest, but as you run further the pain will return and get progressively worse. You may be aware of a clicking sensation as the knee bends and straightens which could indicate a tight IT Band.

The Ilio-Tibial Band (ITB) is a straplike band of tissue that runs down the outside of the upper thigh and attaches to the outside of the lower leg just below the knee. The ITB is a lateral stabilizer of the knee joint and protects the knee from unwanted sidewards movement.

If the runner runs off road, runs on a camber for long periods or is an over pronator, then this can lead to a tightening of this band via contraction of the tensor fasciae latae. Once this band tightens, the act of bending and straightening the knee will force the tight ITB to flick over the lateral femoral condyle. Repetitive movements such as running long distances will eventually irritate the tight band and create an inflammation and tenderness which will be very painful.

The ITB is very difficult to stretch due to its location, but icing the inflamed area, reducing mileage and addressing the cause of the irritation will assist the recovery of the condition. Manual Fascial stretching may be needed to stretch the ITB in order to gain a faster recovery time but ultimately a reduction in mileage is necessary to allow the inflammation to be treated.

Careful management during the treatment phase will get fast results and make sure you enlist the help of sports injury specialist with knowledge of running injuries. Solihull Sports Injury Clinic in Hockley Heath, Solihull between Stratford on Avon and Birmingham have such expertise and also have a clinic in Tamworth, Staffordshire. Headed by Sports Physiotherapist and Osteopath John Williams, Solihull Sports Injury Clinic will get runners back running again. More information on Running injuries can be found by visiting their website www.solihullsportsinjuryclinic.co.uk