Knee Swelling Caused by Running

Question:

Dear TAI Experts:

It has been seven months since I had arthroscopic surgery to repair a small meniscus tear in my right knee. I do yoga regularly and have regained all my flexibility with no discomfort or pain, but when I run, the inside area (knob) of my knee swells and becomes painful. After walking the swelling and pain gradually decrease. I was told it could be scar tissue from the surgery. I’m a 51 year young triathelete with no other knee issues.

Answer

Without a physical examination, I cannot speak directly to what is causing the inside area of the knee to swell with running. Scar tissue is a possible cause. However, another possibility is the gait mechanics with running could be altered due to hip and/or ankle weakness, and/or decreased flexibility. If the outside hip muscles are weak, the knee has the tendency to fall inward into a position called valgus patterning. Valgus patterning places increased stress on the inside of the knee, including the soft tissue, and with higher load activities could lead to pain and swelling in the inside of the knee. However, valgus patterning can also be driven from foot mechanics as well. Someone who over pronates will also have a tendency for the knee to fall inward. In order to determine the source of the inside knee pain and swelling, it would be beneficial to be evaluated by a licensed physical therapist. A licensed physical therapist will evaluate gait mechanics with walking and running and assess the strength, flexibility, and joint mobility in the leg that may be contributing to the pain and swelling.

Laura Evans PT, DPT