Why do my knees hurt when i run?
Knee pain is one of the most common problems runners experience. If you’ve ever wondered “Why do my knees hurt when I run?”, you’re not alone.
At Weaver Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic in Northwich, knee pain is one of the most frequent issues we treat in runners.
The knee absorbs significant forces during running — often two to three times body weight with every step. Over time, poor biomechanics, muscle weakness, or training errors can lead to irritation and injury.
Understanding the cause of knee pain is the first step toward effective treatment and long-term prevention.
The Most Common Causes of Knee Pain in Runners
1. Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
This is the most common running-related knee injury.
Symptoms include:
• Pain around or behind the kneecap
• Pain during running, especially downhill
• Pain when climbing stairs
• Discomfort after sitting for long periods
The underlying cause is usually poor control of the hip and thigh muscles, which affects how the kneecap tracks during movement.
Treatment typically focuses on:
• Hip and glute strengthening
• Movement correction
• Gradual training progression
2. IT Band Syndrome
Pain on the outside of the knee is commonly caused by irritation of the iliotibial band.
This condition often occurs when runners:
• Increase mileage too quickly
• Run downhill frequently
• Have weak hip stabilisers
Treatment focuses on:
• Strengthening the glute muscles
• Improving pelvic stability
• Adjusting training load
3. Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee)
Pain just below the kneecap can indicate irritation of the patellar tendon.
This injury is common in runners who:
• Perform hill training
• Increase speed sessions
• Combine running with jumping sports
Rehabilitation usually includes progressive tendon loading exercises.
4. Meniscus Irritation
The meniscus is a cartilage structure within the knee joint.
Symptoms may include:
• Joint line pain
• Clicking or catching sensations
• Swelling
Physiotherapy can often help improve joint function and reduce irritation.
Risk Factors for Knee Pain in Runners
Several factors increase the risk of knee pain.
These include:
• Weak hip and glute muscles
• Poor running mechanics
• Sudden training increases
• Limited ankle mobility
• Poor recovery
At Weaver Physio Northwich, our assessments identify the specific factors contributing to your knee pain.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Treatment for running-related knee pain often includes:
✔ Strengthening exercises
✔ Movement correction
✔ Running gait analysis
✔ Load management strategies
✔ Soft tissue therapy
Our goal is not just to relieve pain but to improve the way your body moves during running.
Preventing Knee Pain When Running
To reduce injury risk, runners should focus on:
✔ Strength training
✔ Gradual training progression
✔ Good running technique
✔ Adequate recovery
✔ Proper footwear
Developing strength, stability and coordination allows the body to handle running loads more effectively.
When to See a Physio
If knee pain persists for more than 1–2 weeks, it’s worth getting assessed.
Early treatment can prevent minor issues from becoming long-term injuries.
Running Injury Specialists in Northwich
At Weaver Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic, we specialise in treating running injuries including:
• Runner’s knee
• IT band syndrome
• Shin splints
• Achilles tendinopathy
• Plantar fasciitis
Through detailed assessment and structured rehabilitation, we help runners return to training stronger and pain-free.
Book an Appointment
📍 Weaver Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic
110 Middlewich Road, Northwich
📞 01606 227484
🌐 www.weaverphysio.co.uk
Struggling With a Running Injury?
Many running injuries are caused by biomechanical inefficiencies or training errors.
Our Runner’s MOT at Weaver Physio Northwich includes:
✔ Video running gait analysis
✔ Strength and mobility testing
✔ Injury risk screening
✔ Personalised running advice
Book your Runner’s MOT and discover what might be holding your running back.
📍 Weaver Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic
📞 01606 227484
