That dull ache or sharp twinge around your kneecap isn’t just frustrating—it can slow you down in everything from workouts to walking the dog. While this condition is often referred to as runner’s knee, it doesn’t discriminate; anyone who spends time on their feet, climbs stairs, or sits for long periods can develop it.
Yet, with the right care, many people find significant improvement and get back to moving comfortably again. So, let’s take a closer look! Can your local Lithia chiropractor help?
What is Runner’s Knee?
Runner’s knee, medically known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, refers to pain that develops around or behind the kneecap. This condition occurs when the kneecap doesn’t track properly in its groove at the end of the thighbone, creating irritation and discomfort.
Common symptoms include:
- Dull, aching pain around or behind the kneecap
- Discomfort when sitting with bent knees for extended periods
- Pain during stairs, squatting, or kneeling
- Grinding or clicking sensation in the knee
- Mild swelling around the joint
Additionally, several factors can contribute to runner’s knee, such as:
- Overuse from repetitive activities
- Kneecap misalignment
- Muscle strength imbalances
- Flat feet or foot structure issues
- Previous knee injury
- Sudden activity increases
- Inadequate footwear
But what can you do about it?
Can Chiropractic Care Help?
Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach to managing runner’s knee by addressing the biomechanical factors that contribute to the condition. Rather than viewing the knee in isolation, chiropractors examine how your entire kinetic chain—from your feet through your hips and spine—affects knee function. So, here are just a few benefits chiropractic care can provide in this situation!
Reduced Pain and Inflammation
Chiropractic adjustments can help decrease pain associated with runner’s knee through several mechanisms. First, proper alignment can help reduce abnormal stress on the knee joint, allowing inflamed tissues to calm down.
Additionally, specific adjustments to the knee, hip, and spine help restore normal joint motion, promoting better fluidity within the joint and supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
When your joints move properly, they send different signals to the nervous system than when they’re restricted. These improved nerve signals can help modulate pain perception, providing relief without relying solely on medications.
Improved Joint Alignment
Misalignment anywhere in the lower body can contribute to improper tracking of the kneecap. Luckily, chiropractors assess and address alignment issues in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and pelvis. Even subtle misalignments in these areas can alter how forces travel through your knee during movement.
Through targeted adjustments, chiropractic care helps restore proper alignment throughout the kinetic chain. This improved alignment allows the kneecap to track more smoothly in its groove, reducing friction and irritation that cause pain.
Enhanced Biomechanical Function
Chiropractic care focuses on improving overall movement patterns that affect knee health. Poor biomechanics often develop as compensations for old injuries or imbalances, placing extra stress on the knee. Chiropractors identify these patterns and work to correct them through adjustments and guidance on proper body mechanics. As your biomechanics improve, your knee experiences less abnormal stress during daily activities.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Chiropractic care provides a natural, non-invasive approach to addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of your knee pain. With the At Last Chiropractic team, you can get back to the activities you love, without pain holding you back! Book your appointment today.
