Runner's Knee (Patellofemoral Pain) Treatment in Marple
Patellofemoral pain — often called runner's knee — causes aching at the front of the knee, especially with stairs, squatting and running. We find the cause and rebuild smooth, pain-free kneecap tracking at our Marple clinic.

Understanding Your Condition
If the front of your knee aches on stairs, after sitting through a film, or when squatting or running downhill, it's very likely patellofemoral pain, often called runner's knee. Despite the name, you don't have to be a runner. It's common in teenagers, cyclists, gym-goers and people who've recently become more active. It responds really well to the right strengthening. At Complete Recovery Physiotherapy in Marple we'll help you settle the pain and get back to what you enjoy. We see people from Marple, Stockport, Romiley, Hazel Grove, High Lane and Disley.

What You Feel
- Aching around or behind the kneecap
- Pain descending stairs or downhill
- Discomfort squatting, kneeling or sitting with bent knees
- Pain during or after running
- A grinding or clicking sensation under the kneecap
- Pain that worsens with increased activity
- Discomfort after sitting for long periods (the 'movie theatre sign')
- A feeling the knee is weak or may give way
Common Causes
- Weakness in the hip, glute and quad muscles
- Poor kneecap tracking due to alignment or muscle imbalance
- Tightness in the quads, hamstrings, calves or IT band
- Rapid increases in running, training or hill work
- Poor foot mechanics and overpronation
- Training errors — too much, too soon, too fast
- Inappropriate or worn-out footwear
- Biomechanical factors such as wide hips or flat feet
Pain Around the Kneecap?
Book your assessment today. We'll settle the pain and get you back to what you enjoy.
Your First Appointment, How We Treat It and the Timeline
Your first appointment is 45 minutes. We'll check your knee, hip and foot, and look at how you squat, step and, if relevant, run. Treatment combines hip and thigh strengthening (the best-evidenced approach), short-term taping or load changes to ease pain, and a gradual return to running, stairs and sport. Most people improve noticeably within six to twelve weeks.
Everything You Need to Know Before Booking
No GP referral needed. Direct access appointments available — often same-day or within a few days.
What Happens at Your First Appointment
Your first session is a 45-minute comprehensive assessment. We start by listening — understanding your symptoms, your history, and what you want to get back to. We then carry out a thorough hands-on physical examination to identify the root cause of your problem. You'll receive a clear explanation of what's going on, a personalised treatment plan, and hands-on treatment begins in that very first session. You leave knowing exactly what's wrong, what we'll do about it, and how long recovery will take.
What Should I Wear?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area we're treating. For knee, hip, or leg problems, shorts are ideal. For shoulder, neck, or back issues, a loose top or vest works well. You'll never be asked to undress beyond what's necessary for examination and treatment, and you'll always be treated with dignity and respect in our private treatment room.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
This depends on your condition, how long you've had it, and your goals. Many patients feel significant improvement within 3–6 sessions. Acute injuries often resolve faster, while long-standing or complex conditions may need more. We'll give you a clear treatment timeline at your first appointment — and we only ever recommend sessions you genuinely need. Our goal is to get you independent and pain-free as quickly as possible, not to keep you coming back.
Can I Claim Through Insurance?
Yes. We are recognised by most major health insurance providers including AXA, Vitality, Bupa, WPA, and Healix. We can bill your insurer directly so you don't need to pay upfront — simply bring your insurance authorisation number to your appointment. If you're not sure whether you're covered, call us and we'll help you check before you book.
Meet the Team
Runner's Knee Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Complete Recovery Physiotherapy?
We Find All Your Factors
Patellofemoral pain is driven by a combination of factors. We assess and address all of yours — strength, flexibility, feet and movement — so it doesn't keep returning.
Runner & Sport Aware
We understand running and the loads it places on the knee, assessing gait and guiding a graded return to running once you're ready.
Hands-On Plus Strengthening
Manual therapy to ease your pain combined with a targeted strengthening programme to improve kneecap tracking — the combination that lasts.
Root Cause, Not Just the Pain
We fix the strength and alignment factors behind your kneecap pain, so it stops coming back when you run or climb stairs.
Same Physio Every Time
Continuity of care with a physio who knows your knee, your running and your goals throughout your recovery.
Free Parking in Marple
Easy visits at Bowden Hall with free parking right outside — making regular rehab appointments straightforward.
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Expert, hands-on physiotherapy in Marple. Free parking. Same-day and short-notice appointments often available.












