There are commonly two types of injuries which can cause knee pain- Acute injuries (Ligament tears) and overuse injuries. As podiatrists, we usually deal with overuse injuries.
What is the cause?
Overuse injuries to the knee can be a result of poor footwear, inappropriate training surfaces (eg bitumen or soft sand) or abnormal alignment of the foot and the leg.
Flat Feet
With flat or excessively pronated feet the lower leg is internally rotated at the same time the upper leg is trying to externally rotate, due to forces produced during walking. The knee absorbs the “twisting” forces and results in injury and eventually pain.
Pronated (flat) feet can result in a Valgus (knocked kneed) position, which means various muscles exert their “pull” in an incorrect direction.
High Arched Feet
Known as Pes Cavus or supinated feet, these type of feet do not allow the shock absorption needed during walking. The knee therefore takes too much force leading to everuse injuries.
Some common injuries of the knee
Patellofemoral pain syndrome – this pain arises from under and around the knee cap. It is exacerbated with running, walking up or down stairs and sitting with knees bent for an extended period of time. There may be clicking or a sensation of weakness upon bending or straightening the knee.
With pronated feet the knee rotates inward causing the patellar tendon (which connects the muscles of the height to the lower leg via the knee cap/ patellar) to pull in the wrong direction hence resulting in injury and pain along the knee.
Iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome- The ITB runs down the outside of the thigh and crosses the knee. With overtime of excessive pronation, the muscle shortens (becomes tight) and it is subject to injury and pain. Often noted on the outside of the knee.