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Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral Syndrome
Patellofemoral syndrome is a fairly broad diagnosis that refers to pain in the anterior (front) of the knee related to the patella (knee cap) and its relationship to the end of the femur (thigh bone). The pain complaints can be variable, but typically includes pain immediately under the patella (knee cap) with activity such as squats, sitting for a long period of time, walking up and down stairs or hills, driving, and running. Sometimes a sensation of clicking or catching is felt under the patella as well.
The reason for pain is typically due to excessive and unbalanced force on the patella during these activities. It can result from a muscle imbalance in the hips and thighs, underlying alignment abnormalities, or dynamic changes in alignment with activity. This results in damage to the cartilage and excessive stress on the bone which generates pain. It can also lead to cartilage breakdown, cracking or tearing.
The diagnosis is made classically by the presenting complaints of the patient and verified with several aspects of a comprehensive examination of the hip, knee, foot and ankle, as well as the overall gait. A few functional tests will also be conducted to evaluate the dynamic changes that occur. X-rays should always be part of the evaluation whereas an MRI is only indicated in certain circumstances such as to evaluate the articular cartilage of the patella and to evaluate for evidence of excessive bone stress.
Most commonly, the source of the problem can be tracked back to a muscle imbalance which is effectively treated with the correct regimen of physical therapy. This typically will make significant improvements in symptoms in as early as 6 weeks. On rare occasions, certain surgical procedures will be indicated, as well if underlying anatomic abnormalities are present and can't be overcome by the appropriate physical therapy.
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Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
A wearing down or softening of the kneecap cartilage which causes pain at the front of the knee is called patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
PFPS
Runner's Knee