Patellar femoral pain syndrome (PFPS) commonly known as ‘runner’s knee’ is a type of injury that affects the kneecap and surrounding areas. This condition is usually caused by overuse which results in the deterioration of cartilage. People who are active or participate in sports, especially running, basketball or soccer are most likely to experience this type of injury. Physiotherapy and chiropractic care are some treatment options available for the management of PFPS. However, a crucial aspect of managing the condition is avoiding certain foods that may increase inflammation which can exacerbate the pain and discomfort associated with PFPS. Through the help of a naturopathic doctor or dietitian these diet adjustments can be made easily to quicken your recovery time.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some foods that you should avoid if you have PFPS.
Sugary Foods
Sugary foods like candies, pastries, and sodas are high in refined sugars, which can increase inflammation levels in the body. When you have PFPS, you want to lower your inflammatory levels as much as possible. Therefore, it is recommended that you cut down on sugary foods or eliminate them altogether from your diet.
Alcohol
Alcohol is another food item that you should avoid if you have PFPS. Alcohol is known to increase inflammation in the body, which can lead to increased pain and swelling in the knee. In addition, alcohol can also interfere with the healing process, making it more challenging for your body to recover from the injury.
Processed Foods
Processed foods are usually high in salt, artificial additives, and preservatives. These types of food items can increase inflammation levels in the body, leading to an exacerbation of your PFPS symptoms. Therefore, it is recommended that you avoid processed foods as much as possible. Instead, opt for whole foods that are fresh and nutrient-dense.
Gluten
Gluten is found in wheat, rye, and barley, and it is a known inflammatory agent. For individuals with PFPS, consuming gluten can increase inflammation in the body, which can worsen their symptoms. If you have PFPS, it is recommended that you avoid gluten and try gluten-free alternatives instead.
Dairy Products
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and butter are high in saturated fats, which can increase inflammation levels in the body. For individuals with PFPS, consuming dairy products can lead to increased pain and discomfort in the knee. Therefore, it is recommended that you avoid dairy products or opt for low-fat alternatives.
In conclusion, if you have patellar femoral pain syndrome, you must be mindful of your diet to manage the condition properly. Consuming certain food items can increase inflammation levels in the body, which can exacerbate your PFPS symptoms. Therefore, it is recommended that you avoid sugary foods, alcohol, processed foods, gluten, and dairy products. Instead, opt for whole foods that are fresh and nutrient-dense to promote faster healing and improved overall health. Finally, seek the help of healthcare professionals like dietitians, naturopathic doctors, chiropractors, or physiotherapists, who can guide you on the right diet for your condition.
If you have any questions or would like to explore naturopathic medicine further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Michael Torreiter, ND, CFMP, or another Waterloo Naturopath CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
