Runner’s knee, formally known as chondomalacia patellae, is a degenerative condition affecting the cartilage along the back of the kneecap (i.e., patella). Runner’s knee, which causes dull pain or discomfort around or behind the kneecap, is common in cyclists, rowers, runners, soccer players, and tennis players. Women are more commonly affected by runner’s knee than men. This condition can result from either acute injury to the patella or chronic friction between the patella and the femoral groove through which it passes. Such chronic friction can be caused by overtraining or through the application of excessive force to the knee joint via exercises included squats and leg presses.

Treatment: Rest and avoiding the sports/activities that caused the problem in the first place followed by a gradual return to activity is the first line of defense against runner’s knee. Lower impact cross-training activities such as swimming can be used to maintain fitness while resting the knee(s). Unlike damage from arthritis, the body is thought to be able to repair damage due to chondromalacia. In cases where runner’s knee doesn’t respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be indicated. In some cases, the problems are caused by anatomical mis-alignments that can be corrected.