Medically reviewed by Dennis Meszler, PT, MPT, SCS
What Is Runner’s Knee?
Runner’s knee—also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome—is a common overuse injury that causes pain around or behind the kneecap. Despite its name, this condition doesn’t only affect runners. It can also impact cyclists, hikers, athletes, and even people with active jobs or daily routines that involve repeated knee motion.
Common Symptoms
- Dull, aching pain in the front of the knee
- Pain that worsens with activity (running, squatting, or climbing stairs)
- Discomfort after prolonged sitting
- Swelling or a clicking/popping sensation around the kneecap
If left untreated, runner’s knee can become persistent and limit your ability to stay active.
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Physical therapy is one of the most effective, non-surgical treatments for runner’s knee. A licensed physical therapist will assess your movement patterns, identify contributing factors, and build a plan to reduce pain, restore function, and prevent the injury from recurring.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
Your physical therapist will begin with a thorough evaluation, assessing:
- Gait and running mechanics
- Knee alignment and tracking
- Muscle strength and flexibility
- Hip, core, and foot mechanics
Understanding how your body moves helps target the root cause—not just the symptoms.
Key Benefits of Physical Therapy for Runner’s Knee
1. Pain Reduction
Physical therapists use a combination of manual therapy, stretching, and modalities like ice, heat, or electrical stimulation to relieve discomfort and calm inflammation.
2. Muscle Strengthening
Weak hip, glute, or quadriceps muscles are often to blame for poor knee alignment. A customized strengthening plan improves support around the knee joint, reducing strain on the patella.
3. Improved Flexibility and Mobility
Tight muscles—especially in the hamstrings, calves, or iliotibial (IT) band—can pull on the knee and increase pain. Stretching routines help release tension and improve joint motion.
4. Movement and Form Correction
Physical therapists assess your running form and everyday movements to correct imbalances. Improving posture, alignment, and technique can make a major difference in long-term recovery.
5. Injury Prevention
Education is a key part of physical therapy. You’ll learn how to modify your training, warm up properly, and avoid common mistakes that contribute to runner’s knee.
When to See a Physical Therapist
If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain during or after physical activity, don’t wait. Early intervention leads to faster recovery and fewer complications. Physical therapy can help whether your symptoms are new or ongoing.
Physical Therapy at Raleigh Orthopaedic
At Raleigh Orthopaedic, our licensed physical therapists specialize in diagnosing and treating sports-related injuries like runner’s knee. We take a personalized, evidence-based approach to help patients return to activity safely and with confidence.
Working closely with our orthopedic physicians and athletic trainers, our therapy team will guide you through a tailored treatment plan—designed to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent future injury.
Whether you’re a recreational runner or a competitive athlete, we’re here to help you move better, feel stronger, and get back to doing what you love.