Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), or runner’s knee, occurs from multiple factors and doesn’t only target people who run. However, it did get it’s nickname because, unfortunately, it is most common amongst runners.
Runner’s knee is an overuse injury.
Repetitive bending of the knee joint, combined with monotonous ground impact can cause stress on the body. Combine the constant linear movement of running with imbalanced leg muscles, and you could end up with inflammation and irritation in the knee joint.
The quadriceps are what keep the kneecap in place when bending the knee. Therefore, if they are weak or tight, it places abnormal stress on the kneecap. Other natural body imbalances are often exacerbated in runners, and can cause injury overtime if they aren’t addressed or corrected. Overpronation in the gait or fallen arches (flat feet) can also contribute to or cause runner’s knee.
Yoga helps prevent injury with it’s dynamic movements, whole body stretching and functional body weight strengthening poses and flows.
Watch the video below for additional tips for preventing runner’s knee.
Visit my events page for upcoming Yoga for Runners workshops.
Making Bodies Better 