Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a general term used to designate pain from the joint between the kneecap and the femur, or thigh bone, or surrounding soft tissue. It can be caused from direct trauma to the knee but is commonly connected to a combination of conditions including overuse, overloading, weakness, muscle imbalance, abnormal kneecap tracking, muscle tightness, and poor body mechanics.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

Pain at the front of the knee but it can be felt elsewhere; usually provoked with compressive forces at the knee such as with going up/down stairs, sitting with your knees bent, squatting activities, and kneeling

HOW CAN PHYSICAL THERAPY HELP?

With a physical examination, your physical therapist will determine what factors are affecting your knee. From this information, your PT will determine appropriate care including restoring strength, address muscle imbalance, improving muscle flexibility, address foot posture abnormalities, and normalizing movement patterns in order to reduce strain on involved structures.