About Runner's Knee
Runner's knee (patellofemoral pain syndrome) is one of the most common running injuries. The good news: it responds extremely well to targeted strength work and training load management.
Expected Recovery Window
Typical: 4–8 weeks with load management and hip strengthening. Timelines vary by training goals.
Common Symptoms
Pain around or behind the kneecap during or after running, worse with hills or stairs, aching after prolonged sitting ('movie sign'), occasional clicking or grinding sensation, tenderness when pressing on kneecap edges.
Common Causes
Rapid training load increases, hip and glute weakness, poor single-leg control, inadequate recovery between runs, improper footwear, running on cambered surfaces.
How We Treat Runner's Knee
We take a whole-kinetic-chain approach: assess hip strength and control, foot mechanics, and running form. Treatment focuses on progressive loading of the knee, targeted hip strengthening, and smart training load management so you can keep running while you rehab.
