Westernport osteopathy
Knee pain/ runners’ knee/ bursitis
Understanding Knee Pain: Runner's Knee and Bursitis
Knee pain is a prevalent complaint among individuals of all ages, often hindering daily activities and physical exercise. Two common conditions associated with knee pain are Runner’s Knee (patellofemoral pain syndrome) and Bursitis. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for these conditions is crucial for effective management and relief.
Runner's Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
Runner’s Knee, medically known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, is a common condition characterised by pain around or behind the kneecap (patella). It frequently affects athletes who engage in activities that involve repetitive knee motion, such as running, cycling, or jumping. However, it can also occur in individuals with sedentary lifestyles or those who have suffered from knee injuries.
Symptoms of Runner’s Knee:
Dull, aching pain around or behind the kneecap, especially during physical activity or after prolonged sitting.
Swelling and tenderness around the kneecap.
Grinding or popping sensation in the knee joint.
Difficulty with activities that involve bending or straightening the knee.
Causes:
Overuse or repetitive stress on the knee joint, common in runners, cyclists, and athletes.
Muscle imbalances or weakness in the quadriceps, hamstrings, or hip muscles.
Poor biomechanics or improper footwear during physical activities.
Treatment:
Resting the affected knee and avoiding activities that exacerbate pain.
Applying ice packs to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Performing strengthening and stretching exercises to improve muscle balance and flexibility.
Using supportive knee braces or patellar straps to alleviate pressure on the kneecap.
Gradually returning to physical activity after symptoms subside, with proper warm-up and cool-down routines.
Bursitis
Bursitis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints and reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. Bursitis commonly affects the knee joint and can cause significant pain and discomfort, particularly with movement.
Symptoms of Bursitis:
Pain, swelling, and tenderness around the knee joint, often worsening with movement or pressure.
Warmth and redness over the affected area.
Limited range of motion in the knee.
Difficulty kneeling or bending the knee.
Causes:
Repetitive kneeling, squatting, or bending motions that put pressure on the knee bursae.
Trauma or direct impact to the knee joint.
Overuse or prolonged periods of activity without proper rest.
Treatment:
Resting the affected knee and avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms.
Applying ice packs to reduce pain and inflammation.
Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate pain and swelling.
Osteopathic manipulation therapy to address joint alignment issues and improve mobility.
In some cases, aspiration of excess fluid from the bursa or corticosteroid injections may be necessary to reduce inflammation.
Seeking Professional Guidance
If you are experiencing persistent knee pain or suspect you have Runner’s Knee or Bursitis, your osteopath can assess your knee joint and may refer you for further investigative scans or liaise with your family doctor/ specialist. Proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plans can help alleviate symptoms, address underlying causes, and prevent recurrence, allowing you to return to your daily activities with improved knee health and function.
