Knee pain in runners.

Of 149 runners seen with knee pain, 60 had common orthopedic problems as the cause. Eighty-nine had recurring pain but few or no classic findings. These runners were divided into four groups depending on localization of the pain. Gait mechanical problems were identified and treatment regimens developed. Questionnaires were returned by 40 runners who fit into these four pain groups. Treatment by injections, anti-inflammatory agents, and advice to rest or stop running had produced only temporary results. Correction of biomechanical problems related to running relieved or improved the pain in 37 of 40 patients.