Anterior Knee Pain – Also Known As Runner’s Knee
Pain at the front of the knee is known as anterior knee pain. It is also called runner’s knee. This kind of pain stems from a softening of the knee’s cartilage, or a patellofemoral joint (which links the kneecap to the thigh bone) misalignment.
Considerations for Anterior Knee Pain
The doctor will undertake a thorough physical examination of the affected area to assess the condition of the knee. Other tests may also be ordered to determine other disorders like structural or connective tissue deterioration:
Joint X-Ray
Joint CT Scan
MRI scan of the knee
Causes of Anterior Knee Pain
A pronation and lateral (away from the centre) pulling of the patella is the most common cause of anterior knee pain. This results in a misalignment of the muscles and connective tissues that move with the knee.
This ailment is also a result of a softening of the cartilage underneath the patella (chondromalacia patellae), arthritis, or a constriction of the knee’s inner lining during motion (synovial impingement).
Symptoms of Anterior Knee Pain
The first symptoms of anterior knee pain are exhibited in the form of pain underneath the patella (kneecap) and along the both sides of the kneecap, especially when bending or sitting for long periods of time.
Runner’s knee symptoms can also result in pain from running down an incline. It worsens during all running motions, and finally becomes persistent pain despite ceasing to run.
First Aid in the Treatment of Anterior Knee Pain Includes:
rest
refraining from running until pain abates
stretching exercises (hamstrings and quadriceps)
strengthening exercises (may be prescribed by a sports medicine specialist for the muscle that impels kneecap movement to the front and centre)
cycling or similar exercises (if they can be performed without pain)
special shoe inserts and support devices, or orthotics (to inhibit further injury after rehabilitation)
After healing from the disorder, it is advisable not to do deep knee bends or use the knee excessively until all symptoms disappear.
Calling Your Doctor
If pain symptoms persist despite rest and rehabilitation, consult your primary health care provider.
Prevention of Anterior Knee Pain
It is also recommended to perform proper warm-up and cool-down stretching before or after exercising for the prevention of sports-related injuries.