Why does the front of your knee ache when you run, climb stairs, or sit too long? In this episode of Inside the Kneecap: Unpacking Anterior Knee Pain, we break down what’s really going on when the front of your knee starts to hurt. From patellofemoral pain syndrome—often called “runner’s knee”—to chondromalacia and other causes of anterior knee pain, we explore how these conditions develop, how they differ, and what you can do to find relief. Learn how doctors diagnose the problem, why physical therapy is often the key to recovery, and when surgery might actually be needed.

This episode draws from expert-reviewed information available on the free, peer-reviewed website of the non-profit OrthoEducation, found at