Have you ever experienced a dull, aching pain around the front of your knee? Does it worsen when you climb stairs, sit for extended periods or engage in physical activity? If so, you may be suffering from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS). PFPS is a common knee condition that affects individuals of all ages, especially active individuals. It occurs due to overuse, misalignment, or trauma to the knee joint. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what PFPS is, its causes, and how to recognize the symptoms.
Understanding Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
PFPS is a condition that causes pain around the front of the knee. It occurs when there is an imbalance between the patella (kneecap) and the femur (thigh bone) that causes friction between the two. This friction causes pain in the area at the front of the knee, resulting in PFPS. PFPS is commonly seen in individuals who partake in activities such as running, jumping, squatting, or crouching.
What Causes Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?
There are several factors that can cause PFPS. Overuse or overtraining is often the primary cause of PFPS. This may occur when athletes, runners, or individuals that engage in high-impact activities increase the intensity, frequency, or duration of their training too quickly. Another cause of PFPS is biomechanical imbalances around the knee joint, which may be due to poor alignment or foot posture. This misalignment creates an uneven distribution of force on the joint, which can lead to PFPS.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
PFPS is a condition that causes discomfort and affects the way you move. It is often characterized by an aching pain around the front or beneath the kneecap that can worsen when you climb stairs, kneel or crouch. Other symptoms of PFPS may include swelling, clicking, or popping sensations around the knee joint.
Treatments for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Treating PFPS involves several approaches that target the root cause of the condition. These treatments can include:
Rest: Reducing or modifying the amount of physical activity can help alleviate the symptoms of PFPS
Ice or Heat Therapy: Applying ice or heat can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain
Physiotherapy: Strengthening exercises for the knees, hips, and thighs can help address the underlying biomechanical issues that cause PFPS
Orthotics: Customized shoe inserts can help improve the alignment of the feet and legs, reducing the risk of PFPS
Preventing Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
PFPS can be prevented by taking several precautions. Individuals who partake in physical activities should gradually increase their intensity, frequency, and duration. It’s also essential to wear supportive shoes and use orthotics to ensure proper alignment of the feet and legs. Lastly, incorporating a well-rounded strength conditioning program that focuses on developing and maintaining strong muscles around the knee can help reduce the risk of developing PFPS.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome can be frustrating and painful, but it’s not a permanent affliction. With proper care and treatment, individuals can alleviate their pain and improve their knee function. If you suspect that you have PFPS, it is essential to see a medical professional, such as a physiotherapist or chiropractor, who can diagnose and develop a treatment plan that works for you. Together, we can help you get back to pain-free living.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
