Knee Pain After Running
Diagnosis: Patellar Tendonitis
Symptoms, causes and treatment
The patellar tendon runs across the kneecap and connects the thigh muscle to the shin bone. As soon as the knee joint moves, strain is put on the patellar tendon – that means it has to withstand a lot of pressure. If the excessive strain continues, it will become too much at some point, resulting in irritation of the patellar tendon. If this irritation does not subside by itself after a short time but becomes chronic instead, wear can cause “degenerative” changes, leading to patellar tendonitis.
In volleyball or basketball players, it’s the quick starting and stopping movements, sudden changes of direction and jumps that torment the patellar tendon – hence the name “jumper’s knee”. Strictly speaking, running also consists of lots of little jumps. That’s why runners aren’t safe from it either: if the knee is regularly subjected to too much strain during running, for example, caused by inappropriate mechanical stress, this can also lead to an irritation of the patellar tendon. Perhaps you approached your training too enthusiastically and overestimated your strength when you were in the zone; perhaps you spent too much time in hilly terrain or running on a very hard surface, such as asphalt, for too long and often. Also, have a look at your running shoes – if they are no longer OK, they cannot adequately fulfil their function and must be replaced.
You must be particularly careful if you have already been diagnosed with reduced elasticity of the patellar tendon, a high-riding kneecap (patella alta) or congenital ligament weakness; in these cases, you will also be susceptible to patellar tendonitis.
Symptoms: what does a patellar tendon strain feel like?
The pain associated with inflammation of the patellar tendon is felt on and below the kneecap. Make sure that you get your physician to confirm whether you really are suffering from patellar tendonitis – or whether your pain is caused by something else. Do not take knee pain lightly. If you ignore an irritated patellar tendon and continue to subject your knee to excessive strain, it may even lead to a tear or partial tear of the tendon.
PATELLAR TENDONITIS? PATELLA SUPPORT KNEE STRAP!
Improves the sensorimotor function of your knee and helps prevent permanent discomfort.
Discover Knee StrapIn cases of acute patellar tendonitis, it is primarily rest and relief that help. Depending on the severity of the irritation, you should take a break from running of between six and twelve weeks and take it easy on your knee joint. Your physician can prescribe pain-reducing and anti-inflammatory medication to treat the condition. Physical therapy, with stretches and massages, also boosts the healing process.
Returning to training with support
Once you have rested, you can slowly return to training. But do not try to continue where you left off. This is particularly hard for passionate runners. Remember that your body needs time after a break from training. Ideally, start with moderate jogging, then slowly increase the intensity. In order to prevent recurring irritation, we recommend wearing a patellar strap. The Bauerfeind Sports Knee Strap sits right below the knee. It is comfortable and will not slip. During your running training, it provides the patellar tendon with targeted support and relief – so you can soon train as before and remain free from problems.
Learn more
Patellar tendonitis: how the Knee Strap can help you
If your knee joint is subjected to inappropriate mechanical stress or excessive strain, this can lead to an irritation of the patellar tendon. So you can get back to running, the Bauerfeind Sports Knee Strap provides you with targeted relief. Find out here how it works.
Find out exactly how here
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Didn't find what you were looking for here? Does your knee pain manifest itself in other ways or is it perhaps not caused by sport? Then find out about other possible causes from our Bauerfeind Medical colleagues in the knee pain section!