Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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Runner's knee

Runner's knee often means pain on the outside of the knee from irritation around the iliotibial band. The term is also used for other overuse problems, such as patellofemoral pain at the front. Identifying the pain's location and cause therefore matters. Reducing load, temporarily adjusting sport and building back gradually often help. Not all knee pain with running is harmless: a fall, fever, a warm swollen knee, a swollen lower leg or inability to bear weight needs prompt assessment.

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  • Runner's knee usually means overuse pain around the knee during running or other repeated loading.
  • It often involves irritation outside the knee, but sometimes refers to pain around the kneecap.
  • The first step is usually temporarily adjusting load and then building back gradually.
  • Sharp pain, a warm swollen knee, fever, pain after a fall or a swollen lower leg do not fit simple overuse well.
  • For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.

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Knee problemsKnee problems can result from overuse, a twist, wear and tear, irritation around the kneecap or a meniscus or ligament injury, but sometimes from an infection, thrombosis or fracture. The location of pain, how swelling develops and whether you can still bear weight give important clues. A warm red knee with fever, a painful swollen calf, obvious deformity after trauma or inability to bear weight need prompt assessment. Not every knee problem is an emergency, but recurring or unexplained symptoms deserve a clear explanation and examination.
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Kneecap pain with movementPain around or behind the kneecap when using stairs, squatting, running or sitting for a long time is often called patellofemoral pain. The knee is usually not damaged; targeted exercise therapy and a gradual increase in activity often help.
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Lower back painLower back pain is usually not dangerous and often improves by keeping active and gradually building up daily activities. Problems with urination or bowel movements, numbness around the perineum or anus, or rapidly increasing leg weakness require immediate emergency assessment.