Active rather than passive treatments are the key to recovering from “runners knee” (kneecap pain), according to new international treatment guidelines co-authored by La Trobe University physiotherapy researcher Dr Christian Barton.
Kneecap pain, also known as Runner’s Knee, patellofemoral pain or PFP, affects one in four people. It is the most common running injury, is often persistent, and reduces quality of life and physical activity.
A new Clinical Practice Guideline, published in the Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy finds people with kneecap pain should engage in exercise-therapy, namely hip and knee strengthening, prescribed by a physiotherapist.
The exercise program should:
- Gradually increase activities such as running, sports, or walking in the best way tolerated by the patient to prevent kneecap pain
- The risk of developing kneecap pain can be reduced by improving leg strength in particular the thigh muscles (Quadriceps).
- Pain does not always correlate to knee damage, but a physiotherapist can advise about acceptable levels.
‘Proposed quick fixes for knee pain might be appealing, they rarely work. Evidence tells us that passive treatments such as injections, using machines, and surgery are not necessarily effective’ – Dr Barton said.
Dr Barton proposes that people with kneecap pain should see a physiotherapist who can provide them with a good exercise program and educate them how to stay active and be sensible how much activity they should do.
