Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is one of the most common causes of knee pain. The patellofemoral joint, is where the patella (kneecap), articulates with the femur (thigh bone). As you bend your knee, the kneecap moves through a groove on the thigh bone, called the femoral groove. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome occurs when an individual feels pain behind their knee cap, caused by poor alignment of the kneecap relative to the thigh bone, where the patella travels more to one side, making it rub against the femur.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, is typically caused by a muscle imbalance and/or poor biomechanical control. If patellofemoral pain syndrome is left untreated, tendonitis may develop in the patellar tendon. Over time, repeated trauma to the patellofemoral joint, can lead to increased levels of kneecap pain, joint irritation and degeneration of the joint. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome can occur to anyone, however it is commonly seen in individuals who participate in activities that require running, jumping or squatting, such as tennis, basketball and skiing.

Physiotherapy is very effective for management of patellofemoral pain syndrome.

A Physiotherapist will take a detailed history and complete a comprehensive assessment, to determine the root cause of your patellofemoral pain syndrome. With the information gathered from the assessment, the physiotherapist will develop an individualized treatment plan to treat your patellofemoral pain syndrome. Based on your assessment and your symptoms, your individualized treatment plan may include:

• Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue release, mobilization or manipulation
• An individualized exercise program including range of motion exercises, muscle strengthening and stretching. As you improve, the physiotherapist will progress your exercises to make them more functional to help you reach your goals.
• Education on activity modification, and returning to your activities
• A knee brace may be recommended
• Modalities such as acupuncture, TENS, ultrasound, heat or ice