CLINIC
Th e knee is a complex joint, but it’s oft en poor running mechanics in other areas that can lead to knee pain and injury
YOUR EXPERT
Jenny Blizard is a registered physiotherapist (blizardphysiotherapy.co.uk), speaking on behalf of Simplyhealth, title partner of the Simplyhealth Great Run Series.
By far the most common risk factor for developing knee pain as a result of running is faulty biomechanics. The good news is, in most circumstances, with the relevant knowledge and help, the risks can be reduced.
Understanding knee anatomy
The knee (tibiofemoral) joint is basically a hinge joint formed between the tibia and femur which allows flexion and extension of the joint. A small amount of rotation must be allowed to take place to dissipate stress on the bones and cartilage.
A second joint, the patellofemoral joint, is at the front, formed of the concave surface of the femur and the convex surface of the patella. The patella lies within the tendon of the quadriceps muscles (the main muscle group at the front of the thigh) and thereby increases the mechanical advantage of the quadriceps muscles.