Patellofemoral Pain in Children
Patellofemoral pain, often referred to as “runner’s knee,” is a common condition in children, especially those who are active in sports. This type of knee pain occurs when the patella (kneecap) doesn’t move smoothly over the femur (thigh bone) during movement, leading to irritation and pain around the front of the knee.
While this condition can affect anyone, it is particularly common in children and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 16, often following a growth spurt.
Children experiencing patellofemoral pain may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Pain around the front of the knee, especially during activities like running, jumping, or climbing stairs.
- Pain after prolonged sitting, especially with the knee bent.
- Knee stiffness or a feeling of instability during movement.
- Swelling in some cases.
- Grinding or popping sounds in the knee when bending or straightening the leg.
Causes of Patellofemoral Pain
Patellofemoral pain can be caused by a combination of factors, including:
- Growth spurts: Children experience rapid growth that can lead to changes in muscle strength and flexibility, affecting the alignment of the knee.
- Overuse: Repeated stress from activities like running, jumping, or sports that require quick direction changes can strain the knee joint.
- Muscle imbalances: Weak quadriceps muscles or tight hamstrings and hip flexors can cause improper tracking of the patella, leading to pain.
- Poor biomechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns can cause misalignment in the knee joint, contributing to pain.
- Injury: A direct blow to the knee or a sudden twisting movement may also cause patellofemoral pain.
At The Back and Body Clinic, our experienced team can treat patellofemoral pain through a combination of manual therapy techniques, exercises, and education. Our goal is to relieve pain, restore proper knee function, and help your child get back to their active lifestyle.
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