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Runner's Knee: Not Just for Runners |
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 Athletes who often experience pain in the kneecap may have runner's
knee, or chondromalacia. But don't let the name fool you. Runners
aren't the only ones who experience pain associated with chondromalacia.
Knee pain from chondromalacia is usually dull and aching and affects
the anterior, or front, of the kneecap. What causes this condition that
commonly occurs in young athletes, and even more frequently in women?
Chondromalacia is the result of intense stress load on the knees, so
runners, cyclists, skiers, soccer players and those participating in
similar activities are more likely to be diagnosed.
Chondromalacia is the result of irritation under the kneecap, or
patella. The underside of the patella is covered with a layer of
cartilage that protects the knee joint and allows the joint to easily
bend and move. Excessive activity causes wear and tear on the
cartilage, which then breaks down. Without the cartilage protecting the
joint, the patella rubs directly against the knee joint causing pain
and irritation.
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), other contributing factors include:
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Kneecap that is out of alignment compared to the rest of the knee
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Injury to the knee, such as a strained tendon
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Tightness, imbalance or weakness in the thigh muscles
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Flat feet
The first approach to treating chondromalacia includes resting the knee
and taking a break from any activity until the activity can be done
without pain. VOA and AAOS recommend RICE:
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Rest: Avoid putting weight on the painful knee. To keep active, try a non-weight bearing activity like swimming.
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Ice: Apply ice packs to the knee; apply for 15 minutes at a time every three or four hours.
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Compression: Use an elastic knee sleeve/bandage with a hole for the kneecap that fits snugly without causing additional pain.
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Elevation: Keep the knee raised higher than your heart.
Also take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, such as aspirin
or ibuprofen, if needed to help manage your pain. After resting for a
period of time, be sure to get back into your activity slowly.
If RICE and taking an activity break do not alleviate the pain
from chondromalacia, call VOA to make an appointment with an orthopedic
specialist. Physical therapy may be prescribed to help recondition your
knee. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove fragments of
damaged cartilage or to realign the kneecap.
For more information about chondromalacia or to schedule an appointment, call VOA at 425-656-5060.
Additional Resources:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Chondromalacia of the Patella - National Institutes of Health |
