Anterior knee pain

Alternative Names:
Runner's knee

First Aid:

Treatment of anterior knee pain involves resting the knee and not resuming running until it can be done without pain.

Stretching exercises for the hamstrings and quadriceps and strengthening exercises for the muscle that pulls the kneecap toward the center of the body may be prescribed by a sports medicine specialist or physical therapist. Bicycling may be substituted for other exercise if it can be done without pain.

Special shoe inserts and orthotics (support devices) may help prevent further injury after healing.



Do Not:

Do not perform deep knee bends or overuse the knee until symptoms resolve.



Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:
Call your health care provider if knee pain persists in spite of resting the joint.


Review Date: 1/15/2003
Reviewed By: Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.