Patello-femoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is the most common cause of knee pain. It accounts for 25% of all running injuries and may occur with work or recreation. It is most commonly seen as an overuse injury from adverse loading of the patella-femoral joint and may also occur with trauma to the knee.
Pain presents around the front or sides of the patella and is aggravated by squatting, stairs, jumping and running. Medial knee deviation (shown below) has been identified as a contributor to adverse loading of the patellofemoral joint.
There is a growing body of evidence to support strengthening to the hip muscles in managing PFPS. Improvements in hip abductor and hip external rotator strength/endurance have a positive effect on knee deviation during squatting/running. There is also some evidence supporting the use of patella taping, quadriceps strengthening, ankle flexibility and occasionally foot orthotics.
Your physiotherapist can assist with patella-femoral pain syndrome and provide a specific management program. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to call us on 3245 4532.
Kind Regards,
Capalaba Physio Works
