Runner's Knee Treatment South Hams
Struggling with knee pain while running along the South West Coast Path or in the depths of Dartmoor? You may be experiencing Runner's Knee, a common overuse injury affecting recreational joggers and experienced athletes across Devon.
What Is Runner's Knee?
Runner's knee, also known as Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, causes discomfort around or behind the kneecap, especially during activities like running, squatting, or sitting for long stretches. It’s a prevalent challenge for many in Devon and South Hams, impacting trail runners, road runners, and athletes across various sports. Understanding it is the first step toward effective prevention and recovery!
🩺 Common Symptoms of Runner's Knee
Pain around the front of the knee
Discomfort during activity or when sitting too long
Clicking or grinding noises when bending the knee
Pain worsened by running downhill or stairs
🧐 What Causes Runner's Knee?
Runner's knee can stem from:
Overuse or sudden increase in mileage
Poor running form or biomechanical issues
Muscle imbalances (weak glutes, tight IT band)
Inadequate footwear or flat arches
Running on uneven terrain (common in South Hams)
Effective Treatments for Runner's Knee in Devon
1. Sports Therapy & Massage
Sports massage and myofascial release are fantastic approaches to alleviating muscular tension and achieving better kneecap alignment! Sports massage expertly targets soft tissues to relieve tightness, boost circulation, and improve mobility—especially beneficial for athletes engaged in high-impact activities. Myofascial release, on the other hand, focuses on the fascia, the connective tissue around muscles, to release restrictions and restore fluid movement. When combined, these therapies not only ease discomfort in the knee area but also enhance proper kneecap alignment, significantly lowering injury risks and elevating athletic performance.
Regular sessions can lead to incredible, lasting benefits, ensuring you feel great and perform your best during all physical activities. Let's dive into a healthier, more active future together!
2. Strengthening & Rehab Plans
Following a full sports therapist review, a personalised and progressive programme will be created to help runners build strength in areas such as glutes and quads and improve balance and foot strike. - all subject to findings
3. Taping
Kinesiology taping and patellar braces play a crucial role in knee recovery! Kinesiology taping offers flexible support, alleviating pain and swelling while boosting blood flow for quicker healing.
Knee braces come in various styles, and can providing support however the do not solve the issue!
📍 Find Local Support in South Hams & Devon
Visit AM Sports Therapy at The Health Hub, Kingsbridge – Specialising in sports injury recovery, deep tissue massage, and rehabilitation programs tailored for runners.
Stay Active, Stay Pain-Free
Whether running through Dartmouth or tackling hills in Ivybridge, don't let knee pain hold you back. Early intervention, expert support, and a personalised rehab plan can get you back on your feet—stronger than ever.