Symptoms
Patellofemoral syndrome is a condition that describes pain in the front of the knee and around the kneecap, known as the patella. Doctors may also call patellofemoral syndrome “jumper’s knee” or “runner’s knee.” Common causes of the condition are overuse of the knee joint and trauma, such as hitting the kneecap or falling on it.
Causes
It is sometimes called "runner's knee" or "jumper's knee" because it is common in people who participate in sports—particularly females and young adults—but patellofemoral pain syndrome can occur in nonathletes, as well. The pain and stiffness it causes can make it difficult to climb stairs, kneel down, and perform other everyday activities.
Prevention
Patellofemoral pain syndrome usually causes a dull, aching pain in the front of your knee. This pain can be aggravated when you: Walk up or down stairs
Complications
Your doctor diagnoses patellofemoral pain syndrome with a thorough physical examination. If necessary, your doctor also orders an X-ray to rule out other medical conditions that may cause pain. An X-ray shows damage to the bones and tissues around the knee. How is patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) treated?
What is patellofemoral syndrome?
What is patellofemoral pain syndrome (jumper's knee)?
What does patellofemoral pain syndrome feel like?
How is patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) diagnosed?
Can patellofemoral syndrome be cured?
This is a book-length tutorial covering every aspect of patellofemoral pain: the nature of the beast (etiology), diagnosis and related conditions, prognosis and worst case scenarios, and more than two dozen reviews of PFPS treatment options. It concludes with plenty of specific advice, but there are no miracle cures.
How long does it take for patellofemoral pain syndrome to heal?
Recovery from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome It usually takes six weeks or more to recover with non-surgical treatment, but it can take longer if surgery is required. It's important to build strength and flexibility in the muscles surrounding the knee and to return to activity gradually and cautiously.
What is the fastest way to cure patellofemoral pain syndrome?
Treatment of patellofemoral pain often begins with simple measures. Rest your knee as much as possible. Avoid or modify activities that increase the pain, such as climbing stairs, kneeling or squatting....TherapyRehabilitation exercises. ... Supportive braces. ... Taping. ... Ice. ... Knee-friendly sports.
What is the cause of patellofemoral syndrome?
Overuse. In many cases, PFPS is caused by vigorous physical activities that put repeated stress on the knee —such as jogging, squatting, and climbing stairs. It can also be caused by a sudden change in physical activity.
What happens if patellofemoral goes untreated?
If left untreated, PFPS may cause weakness of your knee. You may have pain with running, cycling, or walking up or down stairs or ramps. The chances of treating PFPS are better when causes are found and treated as soon as possible.
Does patellofemoral pain need surgery?
Treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome usually includes avoiding any activity, sport or exercise that makes the knee pain worse, anti-inflammatory medications and sometimes wearing soft braces. Surgery is rarely required.
Will a knee brace help with patellofemoral syndrome?
Runner's knee and patellofemoral pain syndrome can occur when your kneecap has veered off the patellar groove. “This issue is often helped by a strap-style brace,” Minnis says. He explains that “the strap helps compress the patellar tendon and aims to alleviate stress on the tendon.”
Does patellofemoral syndrome show up on xray?
Imaging of the patellofemoral joint begins with standard radiographs of the knee, including anteroposterior, lateral, and axial views. The anteroposterior view is the least valuable in evaluating the patellofemoral compartment, but it can demonstrate multipartite patellae as well as gross patella alta or baja.
Does patellofemoral pain syndrome lead to arthritis?
It has been hypothesized that patellofemoral pain, a common knee condition in adolescents and young adults, may be a precursor of degenerative joint changes and may ultimately lead to patellofemoral osteoarthritis.
Is patellofemoral syndrome a disability?
The Veteran's service-connected bilateral patellofemoral pain syndrome has been assigned a 10 percent disability rating for each knee pursuant to the criteria set forth in 38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5299-5261.
How do you test for patellofemoral syndrome?
0:551:56Clarke's Sign / Patellar Grind Test | Patellofemoral Pain ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPosition yourself next to the patients on the involved site and place the webspace of the thumb onMorePosition yourself next to the patients on the involved site and place the webspace of the thumb on the superior border of the patella. Then ask your patient to contract the quadriceps.
Is patellofemoral arthritis the same as osteoarthritis?
Causes of Kneecap Arthritis Cartilage gradually thins as part of the normal aging process, but in some people this happens faster and more extensively than others. This leads to degenerative patellofemoral arthritis, known as osteoarthritis, and usually affects those over the age of 65.
Can patellofemoral syndrome last for months?
Symptoms of patellofemoral pain syndrome This condition can occur in one or both knees. It can lasts weeks and months.
Will a knee brace help patellofemoral syndrome?
Patellar bracing did not improve the symptoms of PFPS more quickly when added to a home program of leg strengthening. However, patellar bracing alone can improve the symptoms of PFPS.
When do you need surgery for patellofemoral syndrome?
The most common conditions requiring this surgery are: Arthritis. Patellofemoral pain disorder. Patellofemoral dislocation or instability.
Does patellofemoral syndrome show up on xray?
Imaging of the patellofemoral joint begins with standard radiographs of the knee, including anteroposterior, lateral, and axial views. The anteroposterior view is the least valuable in evaluating the patellofemoral compartment, but it can demonstrate multipartite patellae as well as gross patella alta or baja.
What causes patellofemoral pain?
Several factors may contribute to the development of PFPS, including: Overuse of the knee joint. Problems with kneecap alignment. Certain anatomy or body types. Weak muscles surrounding the knee . Improper equipment use or sports training techniques.
What is the pain under the patella called?
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is pain around and under the patella (kneecap). The condition is also known as runner's or jumper's knee and affects both kids and adults.
What is PFPS pain?
PFPS is pain under or around the patella (kneecap).
What does it feel like to sit with your knees bent?
Pain after sitting for extended periods of time with your knees bent. Crackling or popping sounds in your knee when standing up or climbing stairs. Pain that increases with changes to your usual playing surface, sports equipment or activity intensity.
What to do if you have knee pain after sitting for long periods of time?
If you have knee pain or notice other symptoms of PFPS, especially after exercising or sitting for long periods of time, contact your doctor to evaluate your knee.
How do you know if you have a swollen knee?
Symptoms usually get worse with activity. Many people experience a dull, aching pain in the front of the affected knee. Your symptoms may also include: Pain during activities that bend the knee, including squatting or climbing stairs. Pain after sitting for extended periods of time with your knees bent.
How to relieve pain in knees?
At home, resting the knee using the RICE method may ease symptoms. RICE means Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Rest: Avoid putting any weight on the knee. Ice: Do not apply ice directly to your knee. Instead, apply cold packs wrapped in a towel for no more than 20 minutes at a time, several times each day.
Why rest patellofemoral syndrome?
Because patellofemoral syndrome often results from overuse and overactivity, resting the affected joint can often help treat the underlying problem. Try these treatment options:
What is the name of the pain in the front of the knee?
Patellofemoral syndrome is a condition that describes pain in the front of the knee and around the kneecap, known as the patella. Doctors may also call patellofemoral syndrome “jumper’s knee” or “runner’s knee.”
What to do if patellofemoral syndrome doesn't respond to over the counter treatment?
If your patellofemoral syndrome doesn’t respond to over-the-counter and at-home treatments, a doctor may recommend surgical intervention. Examples of surgical interventions for patellofemoral syndrome include:
How to reduce patellofemoral pain?
Exercises to reduce your risk. The exercises below stretch and strengthen the muscles that attach to the muscles that act on the k nee. Doing them can help reduce patellofemoral pain. Stretches for the calves and hamstrings can also help reduce tension associated with patellofemoral syndrome.
How long does it take to recover from a kneecap dislocation?
According to the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, if patellofemoral syndrome results after the dislocation of a kneecap, it can take as long as four to five months to recover.
What is tibial tubercle transfer?
Tibial tubercle transfer: This process involves realigning the kneecap. A doctor will move the tibial tubercle, which is the bony portion of the shinbone, as well as the patellar tendon to improve the knee’s alignment. Most often, these treatments aren’t necessary.
How to diagnose knee pain?
A doctor usually diagnoses the syndrome by conducting a physical exam. They’ll ask about what makes your pain worse or better. They’ll also feel your kneecap for signs of instability and ask you to engage in range-of-motion exercises.
What is a dull pain around the front of the knee?
Runner's knee is dull pain around the front of the knee.
What causes runner's knee?
Runner's knee may be caused by a structural defect, or a certain way of walking or running. Other causes may include:
How is runner's knee diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider can diagnose runner's knee by looking at your health history and doing a physical exam. X-rays may be needed for evaluation of the knee.
How to stop knee pain from running?
Medicine such as ibuprofen can lessen pain and reduce inflammation. Stretching and strengthening exercises can help prevent runner’s knee.
How to treat a swollen kneecap?
Treatment includes not running until the pain goes away. Also using cold packs, compression, and elevation may help . Medicine such as ibuprofen can lessen pain and reduce inflammation.
How to diagnose runner's knee?
Your healthcare provider can diagnose runner's knee by looking at your health history and doing a physical exam. X-rays may be needed for evaluation of the knee.
Can runner’s knee be prevented?
Preventing runner’s knee includes not overstressing your knees. You can do this by:
What is the pain in the front of the knee called?
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a broad term used to describe pain in the front of the knee and around the patella, or kneecap. It is sometimes called "runner's knee" or "jumper's knee" because it is common in people who participate in sports—particularly females and young adults—but PFPS can occur in ...
What is the condition called when you have pain in your knee?
In some cases of patellofemoral pain, a condition called chondromalacia patella is present. Chondromalacia patella is the softening and breakdown of the articular cartilage on the underside of the kneecap. There are no nerves in articular cartilage—so damage to the cartilage itself cannot directly cause pain.
Why does my patella flex out?
Patellofemoral pain syndrome can also be caused by abnormal tracking of the kneecap in the trochlear groove. In this condition, the patella is pushed out to one side of the groove when the knee is bent.
What is the pain in the kneecap called?
Patellofemoral pain syndrome occurs when nerves sense pain in the soft tissues and bone around the kneecap. These soft tissues include the tendons, the fat pad beneath the patella, and the synovial tissue that lines the knee joint.
Why is it called a runner's knee?
It is sometimes called "runner's knee" or "jumper's knee" because it is common in people who participate in sports—particularly females and young adults—but PFPS can occur in nonathletes, as well.
What to ask a doctor about knee pain?
During the physical examination, your doctor will discuss your general health and the symptoms you are experiencing. He or she will ask when your knee pain started and about the severity and nature of the pain (dull vs. sharp). Your doctor will also ask you what activities cause the pain to worsen.
How to test for knee pain?
To determine the exact location of the pain, your doctor may gently press and pull on the front of your knees and kneecaps. He or she may also ask you to squat, jump, or lunge during the exam in order to test your knee and core body strength.
Why does my patellofemoral hurt?
Patellofemoral pain is caused by stress on the connective tissues and muscles around the knee, including the quadriceps muscles and vastus medialis , and early softening of the cartilage on the kneecap . We commonly treat this condition in athletes of all levels. Find treatment specialists Find treatment locations.
What causes patella to track improperly?
Overtraining or poor form at a sport. Variations in patient anatomy that cause the patella to track improperly. Weakness or muscle imbalances in the hip or thigh muscles.
What happens if you leave a knee joint untreated?
If left untreated, this condition can sometimes cause damage to the structures in knee joint. It can shift the patella, affect muscles and tendons, and lead to cartilage damage, called chondromalacia patella.
Why do surgeons realign knees?
Your surgeon realigns the angle of your kneecap to relieve pressure on the cartilage. If arthroscopy or relalignment surgery fail, or if there is severe cartilage loss under the kneecap, you may be a candidate for a partial knee replacement.
What are some ways to help knee pain?
Helps reduce pain. Elastic tape or a supportive brace. Stabilizes your knee. Knee-friendly sports. Bicycling, swimming and yoga are low-impact on knees and will help you recover. Orthotics. A shoe insert can make your knee more stable. Physical therapy.
How to help a knee that hurts?
Help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are the most common that we recommend. Rest. Gives your knee time to recover. You may need to stop certain activities in the short term, such as not running for several weeks.
What does it mean when your knees are catching?
The knee feels like it’s catching or locking. You hear a grinding or crackling noise in your knee, called crepitus. Your provider may also perform imaging tests as part of your diagnosis.
What is Patellofemoral Syndrome (PFS)?
Patellofemoral syndrome, also known as PFS or chondromalacia, is one of the most common causes of chronic knee pain. When caught early, this condition can be treated with simple, conservative measures such as rest, ice, compression, elevation, and over-the-counter pain relievers. As the condition worsens, however, patients may require more advanced forms of care. Before jumping into possible treatment options offered at OSR Physical Therapy, our specialists want to explain what PFS is, how it’s caused, and common signs/symptoms associated with the condition.
How to treat patellofemoral pain?
Patellofemoral pain syndrome may be alleviated through conservative measures, such as ice, rest, compression, elevation, and over-the-counter pain relievers. While these treatment options provide temporary relief, patients will likely need more advanced therapies to address discrepancies causing the patient’s chronic knee pain.
How to help knees with a knee injury?
These underlying health problems may be best addressed through physical therapy. Performing strength-building exercises can help stabilize the knee joint and ensure the muscles around the knees are strong and supportive. Furthermore, adding stretches to a physical therapy routine for increased flexibility can help reduce the patient’s risk of developing a serious injury or further damage. A physical therapist at OSR Physical Therapy may also recommend supplemental therapies, like dry needling, taping, bracing, and massage therapy to increase blood flow to the damaged area.
What is kneecap trauma?
Trauma to the kneecap from a dislocation, fracture, or other injuries.
Can physical therapy help with knee pain?
These techniques, in conjunction with physical therapy, can help patients experience relief from their knee pain sooner. If you suffer from PFS, call OSR Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment. Our team of physical therapists is happy to provide much-needed care to patients suffering from patellofemoral syndrome (PFS) (chondromalacia). Visit an OSR location in Anthem , Phoenix , Peoria , Gilbert , Scottsdale , Sun City, Glendale & Moon Valley to discuss treatment options for PSF that are right for you.
Does patellofemoral pain return?
This pain may improve with conservative measures, but more often than not, the pain will return when the knee becomes aggravated . For example, patients may experience pain when they walk up or down the stairs, kneel, squat, or sit low with bended knees for long periods of time. Patients may also experience a catching or popping sensation while walking or moving the knee in any way.
How to treat patellofemoral pain?
Treatment of patellofemoral pain often begins with simple measures. Rest your knee as much as possible. Avoid or modify activities that increase the pain, such as climbing stairs, kneeling or squatting.
What can a physical therapist do to help with knee pain?
Therapy. A physical therapist might suggest: Rehabilitation exercises. Specific exercises can strengthen the muscles that support your knees and control limb alignment, such as your quadriceps, hamstrings and the muscles around your hips, especially hip abductors.
What is the procedure that removes cartilage from the knee?
Arthroscopy. During this procedure, the doctor inserts a pencil-thin device equipped with a camera lens and light (arthroscope) into your knee through a tiny incision. Surgical instruments are passed through the arthroscope to remove fragments of damaged cartilage.
How to help knee pain when squatting?
Correcting inward movement of the knee during squatting is a primary goal. Supportive braces. Knee braces or arch supports may help improve pain. Taping. Your physical therapist may show you how to tape your knee to reduce pain and enhance your ability to exercise.
What is the best way to diagnose knee pain?
To help determine the cause of your knee pain, your doctor might recommend imaging tests such as: X-rays. A small amount of radiation passes through your body in the process of creating X-ray images. This technique visualizes bone well, but it is less effective at viewing soft tissues. CT scans.
What are some activities that help with knee pain?
Knee-friendly sports. During your recovery, you may want to restrict yourself to low-impact activities that are easier on the knees — such as bicycling and swimming or water running .
How to remember knee X-rays?
Also, if you've had X-rays or other imaging tests of your knees, try to bring copies of them to your appointment.
What is the condition of the patella?
Patellofemoral arthritis is a condition caused by damage to the cartilage under your patella or kneecap. This is often associated with those who have been diagnosed with Patellofemoral pain syndrome, Chondromalacia patella, or other ligamentous injuries in the knee.
What is the difference between patellofemoral pain syndrome and chondromalacia patellae?
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is usually only felt on the knee cap and can be caused by many factors, while chondromalacia patellae is typically a degenerative condition of middle-aged or older people.
What causes knee cap to move?
Chondromalacia patellae is another condition that affects the patella, or knee cap. This occurs when there is softening of articular cartilage under your patella which can cause it to move in an irregular motion with each step you take.
What is the pain around the knee cap called?
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is the irritation of the synovium and surrounding soft tissue around the knee cap. This typically affects people in adolescence and younger aged adults
What is a patellofemoral knee tracking brace?
A patellofemoral knee tracking brace may provide patella stability and help reduce the symptoms of Patellofemoral arthritis.
What is the pain in the underside of the knee called?
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is also known as patellofemoral joint (PFJ) dysfunction, which refers to the inflammation of the underside of your kneecap.
What is patellofemoral running analysis?
A patellofemoral running analysis can help determine the best running technique for you to reduce excessive forces on the patella.
