ASK THE ORTHOPAEDIC SPORTS MEDICINE EXPERT
Women More Likely to get Runner’s Knee
Question: My husband and I are training for a 10K and, despite similar fitness levels, I am experiencing knee pain. Why would this only be affecting me?
Answer: Recent studies show that women are six times more likely to suffer from runner’s knee than men. Although runner’s knee is not usually a chronic problem, it can get in the way of an active lifestyle.
One of the most common kneecap problems is called Patella Femoral Pain Symptoms (PFPS), commonly referred to as “runner’s knee.”
One of the main reasons that women are more susceptible to PFPS is that they have naturally wide pelvises, which causes the kneecaps and thighs to meet at a different angle than in men, resulting in extra pressure on womens’ knees.
Symptoms of runner’s knee include pain, a feeling of catching, “giving out,” grinding and popping sound, and stiffness. The pain may make simple tasks, such as going up and down stairs, difficult. Also, sitting with your knees bent or squatting for any length of time is very uncomfortable.
A simple way to reduce the pain from runner’s knee is to stretch and strengthen your quadriceps, and change your workout patterns to a less strenuous activity, such as swimming. Also, keep your running shoes in top condition to cushion your arches and joints.
In all situations, it is advisable to check with your doctor when you experience pain of any kind.
Dr. David Dare received his undergraduate degree from Boston College, his medical school degree from University of Virginia, his orthopaedic training at the Hospital for Special Surgery, and he spent an extra year of training while completing a fellowship in sports medicine at the #1 ranked Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. Read more about Dr. Dare and his role as an Orthopedic Knee Surgeon in Holly Springs, NC.
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Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic
UNC Rex Medical Office Building
781 Avent Ferry Road, Suite 110
Holly Springs, North Carolina 27540
(919) 781-5600
www.raleighortho.com