Patellofemoral Pain - Risk Factors

According to the literature, the incidence of injury among distance runners is between 37-56%.  Of these, pain in the area of the patellofemoral joint is one of the most common complaints.  Thankfully, some recent research has uncovered some of the risk factors for this condition.

Traditionally, it has been understood that the risk factors for patellofemoral pain have been related to different aspects of the knee.  Some of these include malalignment of the patellofemoral joint, imbalance in the muscles around the joint, weakness in the quadriceps or abnormalities in the bone.  Interestingly, the scientific research has not been able to agree on whether over pronation or supination in the arch of the foot has any bearing on this condition.

A 2008 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine has helped to identify that patellofemoral pain can be related to impact.  Specifically, they found that those who developed patellofemoral pain ran with a higher impact (at footstrike) in the outside of the heel and in the second and third toes (during push-off).  So what does this mean?  Traditionally, patellofemoral pain has been attributed to alignment factors.  Given the new literature, we now know that it can also be related to impact.  Although we don’t recommend that you change your running technique without the help of a qualified professional, you may want to lighten your step if you’re known to be heavy on your feet!  If you’re experiencing knee pain, running related knee pain, patellofemoral knee pain or “runners knee”, call or email our clinic immediately to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors so your condition can be treated effectively and efficiently.

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References

Powers CM, Chen PY, Reischl SF et al. Comparison of foot pronation and lower extremity rotation in persons with and without patellofemoral pain. Foot and Ankle International 2002; 23: 634-640.

Thijs Y, Clercq D, Roosen P, Witvrouw E. Gait-related intrinsic risk factors for patellofemoral pain in novice recreational runners. British Journal of Sports Medicine 2008; 42: 466-471.

Wen D, Puffer JC et al. Lower extremity alignment and risj of overuse injuries in runners. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1997; 29: 1291-1298.

Disclaimer
The purpose of this blog is to educate patients and those interested in improving their health and wellbeing. We recommend that you always consult with a qualified health care professional before applying any of the topics or suggestions mentioned on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat your condition. Our chiropractic clinics in Burlington, Dr. McIntyre or Dr. McDowall accept no responsibility for any complications arising from the use of any suggestions, exercises or topics of discussion on this site. Should you have any further questions about these topics please contact our chiropractics clinic in Burlington.