Runner's Knee / PFPS / ITBS

Runner’s Knee is typically categorized as an overuse injury occurring from impact activities that include repetitive motions at the knee and hip. This is one of the most common types of knee pain and is generally related to tightness within your Iliotibial Band (“IT Band”). It is also related to weakness in your hip muscles, as those are the muscles that place your knee in the right position during movements. Foot issues such as flat feet can also contribute to pain.

Common Signs & Symptoms

• Pain around the knee during or after prolonged use.
• Discomfort when bending the knee.
• Increased pain when using stairs or squatting to pick something up.
• Feeling of popping/clicking in the kneecap area.

How Will Physical and/or Occupational Therapy Help?

Your therapist will advise you to:

• Stretch and foam roll your ITB and associated tight muscles.
• Apply ice to your knee throughout the day as needed.
• Avoid aggravating activities that involve a lot of bending/straightening at the knee.

During a Physical/Occupational Therapy session, you will:

• Strengthen and stretch the hip, knee, and ankle muscles to help relieve pressure on the knee.
• Learn how to correctly position yourself when performing normal activities such as standing up, climbing stairs, squatting, and jumping.
• Apply a brace or taping to the kneecap to decrease pain.