Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain) Treatment in Vancouver
What is Runner’s knee?
Runner’s knee is a common knee injury that is felt around and under the knee cap. It is also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome. Contrary to the name, it can affect everyone, not just runners! Our Vancouver chiropractor and massage therapist (RMT) have experience with assessing and treating patellofemoral pain.
What are some of the causes of patellofemoral pain syndrome?
Improper alignment of the knee can put excessive stress on the knee cap. The extra stress and pressure on the knee cap can cause inflammation and further injury.
Weak hip muscles affecting the knee. The gluteus medius and gluteus minimus muscles need to be active and strong enough to ensure proper hip motion while running and other day to day activities.
Tight or weak thigh muscles. The quadicep muscles (thigh muscles) are connected to the knee cap. When these muscles aren’t strong enough, it can lead to knee cap problems
Fallen arches and improper footwear. The foot is important for maintaining knee alignment. When the arches are fallen, it can force the knee into improper positions.
Reduced ankle dorsiflexion. This is when the ankle does not have the full range of motion needed for proper movement. If the ankle does not have enough motion, it relies on the hip and knee to compensate, stressing the cartilage and muscles.
Overuse or overtraining. Make sure to gradually increase training, ensure an adequate amount of rest, have proper nutrition, and do a proper warm up/cool down!
Your chiropractor in Vancouver can address many issues that cause patellofemoral pain. After a physical assessment, the tight muscles (such as hamstrings, rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, etc) can be treated using stretching and myofascial release techniques. Re-training of movements will be done by strengthening the proper muscles like the gluteus medius, gluteus maximus, biceps femoris and other related muscles. Adjustments and mobilization techniques may be used to promote the proper range of motion of the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint. If needed, a custom orthotic that discretely fits into most shoes can be prescribed and created to help with arch supports and alignment of the foot.
Our massage therapy treatment in Vancouver can be a great option for knee conditions like patellofemoral pain. an RMT may stretch and release the tight quadricep muscles, calf muscles, and bring blood flow to the area to enhance healing. Treating the correct muscles is important for the proper position if the patella (knee cap). Swelling in the knee region is often addressed with massage therapy, helping with pain relief and range of motion.
Do you think you have runner’s knee? Book and appointment with our chiropractor or massage therapist to start your treatment!