Causes of Patellofemoral Pain
A common cause of patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is pain around or behind the kneecap (patella).
-
Repetitive activities such as running, jumping, or squatting cause overuse or overload.
-
Imbalances in thigh muscles (quadriceps) or hip muscles.
-
Anatomical factors or abnormal joint mechanics can lead to patella tracking issues.
-
Knee trauma: A direct impact or injury to the knee.
Symptoms of Patellofemoral Pain
Symptoms often include:
-
An aching, dull pain around or under the patella, aggravated by activities such as climbing stairs or sitting for prolonged periods of time with bent knees.
-
Knee swelling: Mild swelling around the knee joint.
-
A popping or grinding sensation is sometimes felt when moving the knee.
-
There is difficulty straightening or bending the knee fully due to stiffness.
-
A feeling of instability or giving way in the knee.
Diagnosis of Patellofemoral Pain
Diagnosis involves:
-
Examine knee alignment, range of motion, and pain response to specific movements.
-
Soft tissue damage or structural abnormalities may be evaluated by MRI or CT scans. X-rays can be normal but can rule out other conditions.
Treatment of Patellofemoral Pain
Treatment options include:
-
Including low-impact exercises and avoiding activities that exacerbate pain.
-
Exercises to strengthen quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles to improve knee alignment.
-
Exercises that stretch thigh and calf muscles to relieve tightness.
-
Corrective footwear or orthotic devices that improve foot alignment.
-
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used for pain relief.
Prevention of Patellofemoral Pain
Preventive measures include:
-
Exercise intensity and duration increase incrementally.
-
Maintaining correct form during physical activities to reduce knee joint stress.
-
Stretching after exercise and an adequate warm-up before exercise are essential.
-
Choosing appropriate footwear to provide adequate support and cushioning for specific activities.
Managing pain effectively and preventing recurrence can be difficult if you do not recognize symptoms early and implement appropriate treatment and preventative measures. Patellofemoral pain syndrome can significantly affect daily activities and sports participation. Consult a healthcare professional if you suffer from persistent knee pain for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
