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Runner's knee (patellofemoral pain)

Also called: Runner's knee, patellofemoral pain syndrome

Dull pain around or behind the kneecap, worse with stairs, squatting, or sitting long. It's common in runners and teens.

TypeOveruse knee pain
Worse withStairs, squats, sitting
TreatmentRest and strengthening

Overview

The kneecap rubs and gets irritated, often from weak hip and thigh muscles.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Pain around the kneecap with stairs or squatting
  • Pain around the kneecap with stairs or squats

Less common

  • Grinding feeling

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todaySudden swelling or can't bear weight.
See a doctor soonPain lasting more than a few weeks.

Causes

Overuse and muscle imbalance.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Runners
  • Teens

Diagnosis

A clinician examines the knee.

Questions you may be asked

  • Activity changes

The exam

Watching you squat and walk.

Treatment

Ease load and build strength.

Self-care

  • Cut back running or jumping for a while
  • Ice after activity
  • Strengthen hips and thighs
  • Wear supportive shoes

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Pain relievers
Pain and swellingAsk first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Physical therapy helps most people.

Prevention

To prevent it:

  • Increase training slowly

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a sports medicine doctor or an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually improves in weeks.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Runner's knee (patellofemoral pain)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.