Do you suffer from kneecap pain? Are you experiencing pain located in the front of the knee? There is a good chance you could be suffering from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS).
This post provides some insight into the syndrome and some simple tips to help you with this frustrating condition.
If you are possibly suffering from PFPS then we advise you follow up with your therapist to ensure a treatment approach that is specific to your presentation.
What is PFPS?
- Poorly defined pain that is localized to the front of the knee
- Worsening of pain with lower-limb loading activities (Ex. squatting, prolonged sitting, ascending/descending stairs, jumping, or running, especially hills)
- Onset of symptoms can be slow or acutely develop
- Symptoms can recur and can persist for years
Current State
- PFPS accounts for 16.5% of all running injuries
- 55-65% women experience PFPS more often then men do
- Prevalence of PFPS is 22.7% in the general population and 28.9% in adolescents
Controlling Risk Factors
- Gradually increase the amount of activity you are doing
- Do a variety of activities; adolescents who specialize in a single sport have greater risk of anterior knee pain
- Maximizing knee strength may reduce the risk of developing knee pain
- Age, height, weight, and leg posture are not risk factors in developing anterior knee pain
Treatment
Evidence Based
- Hip and knee strengthening
- Taping techniques
- Inexpensive shoe inserts
- Focused flexibility exercises
- Adjusting training routine
- Possible gait retraining
- Combined treatments
Further Research Required
- Biofeedback
- Acupuncture / dry needling
- Braces
- Isolated manual therapy
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