Painful knee popping under kneecap when straightening. limping, burning and achy. stairs and walking hurts. brace and ace bandage helps a bit. i'm diagnosed with runner's knee. it's not the normal flare. 'm not sure what this is. what could it be?

Patellofemoral pain: Your symptoms suggest patellofemoral pain;the cartilage underneath your kneecap may be thinning or damaged and causes pain in the kneecap region, esp. W/stairclimbing, squats, lunges etc.Keeping the knee bent for a period of time can be uncomfortable.Isometric quad strengthening, hamstring stretching, nsaids and patellar stabilizing sleeve can be helpful.See ors if sx's persist.Gl!