What Might Cause Inner Knee Pain While Running?

When running, the inner side of your knee can hurt for several reasons. One common cause is patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as runner’s knee, which happens when the kneecap does not move smoothly over the thigh bone. This can show up as pain around the front or inner part of the knee. Another possibility is that your inner knee tissues, such as tendons or ligaments, are being strained. This might happen when you overstride—landing with your foot too far in front of your body—which can lead to a condition sometimes called medial knee desmopathy. These conditions can be worsened by overuse, not warming up properly, weak muscles, or wearing shoes that don’t give enough support. To help prevent or reduce pain, try working on your running technique, strengthening your leg muscles, and using supportive shoes. Remember, if your pain gets worse or does not go away, it is important to find a doctor to check your knee.