Question

Discuss in detail about runner knee.

Answer 1

Runner's knee is another name for patella femoral pain syndrome which translates in plain language to kneecap pain. The kneecap is a sesamoid bone located within the tendon that connects the quadriceps muscle to the lower leg bone or tibia. It functions to improve the forces through the tendon as it crosses the joint and to protect the tendon from wear and tear. It occurs in athletes of nearly every sport and in non-athletes who stress the knee in their daily activities. It gets worse when athletes run uphill, downhill, or up and down the stairs.

1. Causes
   1. Overuse.
   2. Injury to the kneecap.
   3. Misalignment of the kneecap.
   4. Complete or partial dislocation of the cap.
   5. Flat feet.
   6. Weak or tight thigh muscle.
   7. Inadequate stretching before exercise
   8. Improper shoes.
   9. Improper training and uneven training surfaces.
2. Symptoms
   1. The pain usually in front of the kneecap though it could be around or behind it. Pain may get worse while walking downstairs and downhill.
   2. A popping sensation is sometimes audible.
   3. In the worst cases, the knee might swell.
3. First Aid
   It involves "P.R.l.C.E.R" (Protection, Rest, Ice application, Compression, Elevation, and Referral).
   1. Protect the area from further injury.
   2. Provide rest and stop using the injured part.
   3. Apply ice over the affected area.
   4. Compress the area and apply proper bandaging to avoid movement.
   5. Elevate the injured part.
   6. At last, refer the casualty to a competent doctor.