What Might Cause Knee Swelling After Running?

When you run, your knee is put under a lot of stress and pressure. This extra strain can sometimes cause injuries or irritation that make your knee swell. One common reason is patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as runner’s knee, where the area around the kneecap becomes irritated and inflamed. Another possibility is patellar tendonitis, or “jumper’s knee,” which involves the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shin bone getting overworked. In some cases, running can also make early knee osteoarthritis symptoms more noticeable, leading to swelling and pain due to cartilage wear. In addition to these, other factors such as improper running technique, inadequate footwear, or a sudden increase in running intensity may contribute to knee swelling. Remember, these explanations help understand possible causes but do not substitute for a professional evaluation if swelling persists.