You are here:

Knee running injuries

What are knee running injuries?

There are two conditions which are most frequently experienced by runners: Patellofemoral syndrome or overload and ITB syndrome.

Patellofemoral syndrome or overload

The patella or kneecap joint connects the shin bone (tibia) with the thigh bone (femur). As the knee flexes and extends, the kneecap slides over the end of the thigh bone to allow the knee to straighten and bend.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), more commonly known as runner’s or jumper’s knee, is the name given to a range of painful symptoms caused by some abnormality in this joint, which causes pain in front or beneath the kneecap due to an issue with the tendons inserting into the upper or lower end of the kneecap.

Knee extension diagram

ITB syndrome

The other area that is commonly injured in runners is the ITB or iliotibial band. This is a large tendon running from the hip to the knee on the outside of the thigh. With excessive running it can become inflamed and cause ITB syndrome.

Leg illustrated

Runner’s knee and ITB syndrome

Knee consultants

Useful links

Looking to speak to our team? Call us on 020 7046 8000

To book an appointment
or refer a patient

Looking to speak to our team? Call us on 020 7046 8000 020 7046 8085

To book an appointment
or refer a patient