Question

New overweight runner with pain in patella first late in run and now earlier in run and after run along with crepitus. No acute injury. Which of the following is the most appropriate treatment for her condition?

Answer 1

Runner's knee, or patellofemoral syndrome, is a common overuse injury among runners. The most appropriate treatment involves rest, gradually resuming activity, and strengthening the quadriceps muscle.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student is describing symptoms consistent with runner's knee, also known as patellofemoral syndrome, which is a common overuse injury among runners. It is characterized by a dull, aching pain around the front of the knee and deep to the patella. The pain is often felt during running, going up or down stairs, kneeling or squatting, or after sitting with the knee bent for a long period of time.

The most appropriate treatment for runner's knee involves:

1. Stopping the activity that triggers the knee pain for a period of time to allow for rest and healing.
2. Gradually resuming activity after the pain has subsided, starting with low-impact exercises to avoid further aggravation.
3. Strengthening the quadriceps femoris muscle to correct any imbalances and provide better support to the knee joint.

It is also recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or orthopedic specialist, for a proper evaluation and personalized treatment plan.