Why Do I Experience Knee Pain After Running?

Reviewed by Garrett Kneese, MD, MPH

Family Medicine

Knee pain after running can come from factors like muscle imbalances, stress on the joint, and problems with how the knee moves during running. Simple changes in training, strengthening, and technique may help reduce the pain.

Explanation

When you run, your knees take a lot of work. This stress can sometimes lead to what is called anterior knee pain. Research shows that after long races like half-marathons, runners often complain of pain in the front of the knee. This may happen because the muscles around the knee are tired or not strong enough to support the joint well. When the knee doesn't move just right, it puts extra pressure on the patellofemoral area (around the kneecap). Also, running a lot or running with a poor technique may hurt the tissues in the knee, which may lead to early signs of wear and tear. In some cases, the problem might be linked to early changes in the knee joint that could later affect the cartilage. Strategies to help your knee include changing your training routine, working on staying strong and flexible, and maybe even adjusting your running style and shoes. These steps can make your knee work more comfortably and help you run with less pain.

(References)

Martinez-Cano JP, Ramos-Rivera JC, Gómez-García J, Casas-Barragán GA, Rosales MC, Escobar-Gonzalez SS. Anterior knee pain in runners after a half-marathon race. J Clin Orthop Trauma. 2021 Oct 16;23:101640. doi: 10.1016/j.jcot.2021.101640. PMID: 34733605; PMCID: PMC8545678.
Dhillon J, Kraeutler MJ, Belk JW, Scillia AJ, McCarty EC, Ansah-Twum JK, McCulloch PC. Effects of Running on the Development of Knee Osteoarthritis: An Updated Systematic Review at Short-Term Follow-up. Orthop J Sports Med. 2023 Mar 1;11(3):23259671231152900. doi: 10.1177/23259671231152900. PMID: 36875337; PMCID: PMC9983113.
Kunene SH, Taukobong NP, Ramklass S. Experiences and rehabilitation needs of runners with anterior knee pain in under-resourced communities in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, South Africa. S Afr J Sports Med. 2020 Jan 1;32(1):v32i1a6969. doi: 10.17159/2078-516X/2020/v32i1a6969. PMID: 36818977; PMCID: PMC9924559.
Esculier JF, Maggs K, Maggs E, Dubois B. A Contemporary Approach to Patellofemoral Pain in Runners. J Athl Train. 2020 Nov 16;55(12):0. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-0535.19. PMID: 33196837; PMCID: PMC7740062.

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