Anterior Knee Pain in Soccer Players
Pain in the region of the patella (kneecap) is a common problem in competitive
soccer players. Many times the pain is dull or achy at rest and may become sharp
and severe with increased soccer activities. Sometimes the pain may get to the point
where an athlete has to limit participation. The pain usually occurs as a result of the
repetitive forces placed on the knee with running, jumping, and kicking. Running
alone can generate force at the patella that is up to 6 times an athlete’s body weight!
Depending on the location of the pain, one of the structures around the patella may
be to blame. Tendinitis (inflammation of a tendon) or bursitis (inflammation of a
bursa sac) may be possible causes. Growing athletes may have pain at a growth
plate where a tendon attaches (such as Osgood-Schlatter condition). The patella may
be overly mobile, which is seen more commonly in female athletes. But most times,
the pain is more generalized in the front of the knee. The pain might increase after
sitting for long periods of time or with going up and down stairs. Most likely, this is
the condition of patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as “runner’s knee”
because it is so common in running athletes.
In addition to prolonged exposure with soccer activities, other factors that may put
an athlete at risk for anterior knee pain include:
- Poor flexibility of the leg muscles, especially hamstrings and quadriceps
- Decreased strength of the hip and core muscles
- Problems with alignment of the patella
- Improper training techniques
It is never a good idea to play through significant pain. At best, it will cause a
decrease in performance and lead to poor play. At worst, the pain may increase the
risk of other more serious injuries. Fortunately, mild pain or discomfort could
simply mean that the athlete needs to adjust his/her training routine.
Come see us if pain continues, becomes severe or if there is limping, poor motion, or
swelling. In most cases with a short period of rest and directed physical therapy, we
can restore the athlete back to a high level of physical activity. Remember, the best
treatment is prevention. One of the best ways to prevent these injuries is to
schedule time off from soccer activities for at least weeks at a time throughout the
calendar year. Participating on multiple teams or in other running-based sports at
the same time should be avoided. Cross-training with activities that avoid the
impact of running and jumping throughout the year also reduces overuse.
For more information on injury prevention and treatment, go to:
stopsportsinjuries.org or chw.org/sportsmedicine.
Shayne Fehr, MD, FAAP, CAQSM
Assistant Professor of Orthopedics & Pediatrics
Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin