One of the many great things about summer is the ability to exercise outside. Runners find themselves able to combine their passions and enjoy the great outdoors while staying fit. However, summer is also a time that orthopedic conditions such as runner's knee can occur due to overuse or injury.

Though runner's knee is appropriately named as it affects runners at a higher rate than the general population, it can affect anyone who bends their knees a lot. Runner's knee can strike athletes of any kind including cyclists and gymnasts.

Runner's knee is a term used for multiple conditions affecting the knee that cause cartilage inflammation under the kneecap (patella) and pain around the knee, most commonly patellofemoral pain syndrome and chondromalacia patella.

Common causes of runner's knee include:
* Knee injury or injury to surrounding bones or tissues from falls
* Instability of the patella due to weak or tight quadriceps, hamstrings or glutes
* Structural problems of the foot that place stress on the kneecap
* Overuse without proper rest

Because women are more likely to be affected by runner's knee than men, it is especially important for them to see a specialist when experiencing symptoms. The higher incidence in women is most likely due to having wider hips which could place more stress on the knees.

Orthopedic specialists use advanced diagnostic testing in addition to a patient's history and a physical exam to help diagnose runner's knee. During the examination, the physician will look for instability, pain and tenderness, swelling, and other indicators to help make a proper diagnosis. Imaging tests will help determine how the patella is aligned and whether there is structural damage. An out-patient orthopedic urgent care center that is open seven days a week allows many injured athletes receive same-day treatment in order to get back to their routine as safely and quickly as possible.

Because there are various causes of runner's knee, the treatment method recommended by an orthopedic doctor will vary. Physical therapy is commonly prescribed in addition to other therapies or surgery. Runner's knee doesn't typically require surgical treatment, but in rare cases cartilage repair or correction of the patella position may be necessary. Regardless of the method used to help heal runner's knee, an orthopedic physician can help educate the patient on proper healing, what treatment methods are available and how to prevent reinjury.

Knee pain should never be ignored as it can lead to arthritis and other chronic conditions. Visit a sports medicine specialist if your pain lasts longer than a few days, especially if the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation) doesn't alleviate the symptoms.