Runner’s knee (Patellofemoral Syndrome) is a common term used to describe pain around the front of the knee, particularly during activities such as running, climbing stairs, squatting or sitting for long periods. While the discomfort is felt in the knee, the underlying cause isn’t always located there.
At Box Hill Osteopathy, we often see people with knee pain who are surprised to learn that the hip can play an important role in how the knee functions.
Understanding this connection can help guide a more comprehensive approach to care.
What Is Runner’s Knee?
Runner’s knee is often associated with irritation around the kneecap (patella). The medical term commonly used is patellofemoral pain, which refers to discomfort where the kneecap meets the thigh bone.
People with runner’s knee may notice symptoms such as:
- Pain around or behind the kneecap
- Discomfort during running or after exercise
- Pain when walking downstairs or squatting
- Stiffness after sitting for extended periods
These symptoms may develop gradually, particularly when training loads increase or activity patterns change.
Why the Hip Can Matter
Although the pain is felt at the knee, the hip muscles help control the position of the leg during movement. When the hip muscles are not supporting the leg effectively, the knee may experience increased stress with activities such as running or jumping.
For example, the hip muscles help stabilise the thigh as the foot contacts the ground. If this stability is reduced, the knee can move slightly inward, which may place additional pressure on the kneecap and surrounding tissues.
This is why runner’s knee osteopathy often looks beyond the knee joint itself.
How Osteopathy Approaches Runner’s Knee
At Box Hill Osteopathy your Osteopath will begin with a detailed assessment of how the lower body moves. This may include looking at the knees, hips, ankles and feet, as well as discussing your exercise habits and daily activities.
Osteopathic treatment may involve gentle manual techniques that aim to improve mobility and reduce tension in areas that influence the knee, such as:
- The knee joint and surrounding tissues
- The hips and pelvis
- The ankles and feet
- The muscles of the thighs and calves
Your Osteopath may also provide advice on exercises or movement strategies that support better control of the hips and legs during activity.
A Whole-Body Perspective
One of the key principles of osteopathy is considering how different parts of the body work together. In cases of runner’s knee, the hip, knee and ankle often function as part of the same movement chain.
By assessing how these areas interact, osteopathy aims to support balanced movement and reduce unnecessary strain on the knee over time.
Support for Knee Pain in Box Hill
If you’re experiencing ongoing knee discomfort during running or daily activity, it may be helpful to seek professional advice. At Box Hill Osteopathy, our practitioners regularly assess and manage a range of musculoskeletal concerns, including knee pain.
If you’re unsure whether osteopathy is suitable for your situation, our team can discuss your symptoms and help guide you toward appropriate care.
