Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

In general, patellofemoral pain syndrome occurs when the patella does not move or 'track' in a correct fashion when the knee is being bent.

What are the causes of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

• Overloading - Running and other sports where there is repeated weight bearing. The bending of the knee causes pressure between the patella and the femur.
  
• Pronating Feet - Flat feet, otherwise known as pronating feet can cause increased stress in the knee joint.
• Muscle imbalance - If the outer fibres of the quadriceps are stronger than the inner fibres this will cause problematic patella tracking. This can also be caused by an overly tight iliotibial band (ITB).
  
• Q-angle - Some people have a larger than normal femoral angle (known as the Q-angle)and may have 'knock-kneed' appearance (genu valgum). When the person straightens their leg, the patella will be forced to the outside of the knee causing stress to the area underneath..

Patello femoral syndrome:

• Aching in the knee joint, particularly under the patella, around the patella and at the front.
• Straightening and bending the knee causes pain
• There is tenderness along the inside border of the kneecap.
• Swelling
• Walking up or down hills or stairs makes it worse.
• Bending the knee may cause a clicking or cracking sound.
• Sitting for long periods may be uncomfortable. This is known as the theatre sign.

Who is at risk?

• If your kneecap sticks out or is small.
• If your feet roll in or pronate.
• Weak quadriceps.
• Runners who participate in a lot of long distance running or hill running.
• Those who have had a previous knee dislocation

Useful Products:

• Cold Therapy - helps to ease pain and reduce swelling
• Knee Supports - Help to support and protect the knee, and retains theraputic body heat.

Please see the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome