Runner Knee

[ironman]

Does anyone have a cure for runners knee?  Its really putting me behind in my Marathon running.

[Sandy]

Hey Ironman, when you refer to runners knee are you specifically experiencing pain under the knee cap like someone has their fingers under and are trying to pry it up?

[ironman]

Hey sandy
No its above it and below the knee.  I think its from doing too main stairs and running over 40 miles a week.  I ran 14 miles 2 weeks ago and my cafes were as hard as a rock.  So I dont know whats wrong, but its bugging me and im falling behind in my training.

[SNOWRUNNER]

Hey Ironman, when you refer to runners knee are you specifically experiencing pain under the knee cap like someone has their fingers under and are trying to pry it up?

geez Sandy!!!....that sounds so gross.

[Sandy]

I tfeels gross too Snowrunner!!!

OK Ironman I'll ask the obvious question first:  Are you stretching your quads on a regular basis?

[Sandy]

Hey Ironman I just came across this:

Q: I have not been able to run for the last four months due to injury. My right patellar tendon/knee seems to be the source of the problem. When running I don't get any severe pain or discomfort, just an aching and tightness in the front of the knee. I have been doing lots of quad strengthening exercises, which seem to reduce the symptoms, but not alleviate them entirely. 

A: Your symptoms are consistent with either runner's knee or patellar tendinitis. Typically with patellar tendinitis, there is significant tenderness to touch at the bottom of the patella (kneecap). Both problems will cause discomfort in the front of the knee. There may be stiffness when standing following prolonged sitting. The fact that symptoms improve with exercise is re-assuring. Work on flexibility (especially hamstrings and IT band) in addition to strengthening. Apply ice to your knee following activities. You may benefit from a patellar strap (band worn just below the patella during activities). Use of electric stimulation and cortisone by a physical therapist (iontophoresis) can help relieve pain from patellar tendinitis.

Tendinosis refers to degenerative changes in the tendon without the presence of inflammation. Symptoms may improve with the treatments already discussed. If pain is severe and persistent, the area of tendinosis can be removed surgically. Don't forget to check for the common causes of running injuries - abnormal mechanics (such as overpronation) and increasing training too quickly.

     --Dr. Cathy Fieseler

Bryan Dunham at :oyalist College is who I would recommend.

[The Moose]

Maybe if ya slow down a little once in a while it'll heal.

[Sandy]

Now that made me chuckle.