This type of anterior knee pain is very common in runners and can be experienced at any time in ones running career. Common symptoms include pain, instability and/or popping sounds. The primary cause of this problem is overuse but other factors might be to blame.

Other possible factors:

  1. Foot or ankle injuries
  2. Trauma or injury to surrounding muscles or bones
  3. Direct injury to the knee

The key to this condition like all others is to determine the primary cause of the injury and treat the source. From an Asian medical perspective, when overuse is the cause, rest with treatment is usually the best course of action. Treatment will generally consist of acupuncture and cold laser. The acupuncture and cold laser reduce pain, decrease inflammation and improve circulation. The combination of the two modalities produce a powerful synergy. In acute cases the recommended treatment plan is 1-2 times a week with reassessment after three weeks. Chronic conditions can usually be treated with once a week visits, but an initial assessment will be needed to decide the best action plan.

Acupuncture is a powerful tool in the treatment of pain and can be used in many different types of situations, please give the office a call if you have any questions.

Author:

Dr. Derek Kirkham, DAOM, MS, EAMP, LAc is an Acupuncturist, Herbalist and Clinic Director at Glow Natural health Center.