PFS - Find Information on PFS & Products to Treat PFS

PFS stands for Patella Femoral Syndrome, and most often affects runners, skiers, cyclists and soccer players. But anyone with an active lifestyle is at risk for PFS. Please read on for more information about PFS and how to find relief.

Question: What kind of pain is associated with PFS?

Answer: Chronic knee pain behind or around the kneecap is often diagnosed as PFS.

Question: I have PFS - What is going on with my knee?

Answer: PFS describes the abnormal softening of the knee cartilage. People with PFS will find that it hurts to move their knees. People develop PFS when the kneecap rubs against the lower end of the femur – the thighbone – instead of gliding smoothly over it. This repetition roughens the cartilage underneath the kneecap.

Question: How much am I hurting my knee when I have PFS? I am worried about the damage.

Answer: The damage of PFS can range from a slight abnormality of the cartilage surface, to a surface that has been completely worn away to the bone. Traumatic cases of PFS occur when a blow to the kneecap actually tears off a piece of articular cartilage or bone.

Question: How do I get relief from the pain caused by PFS?

Answer: PFS can be treated with rest and ice to reduce swelling.

Other physician-recommended PFS treatment options include:

To treat PFS, wear shoes with added arch supports, especially during exercise or walking.
To relieve symptoms of PFS, take part in low impact exercises that strengthen muscles, particularly the quadriceps.
To ease the pain of PFS, you can swim, ride a stationary bike or participate in other low-impact exercises.
To help treat and prevent PFS, stretch and strengthen the hamstrings and quadriceps.
To help ease pain from PFS, wear a knee brace or other knee support.
To help diminish painful symptoms of PFS, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Question: Do I really need to see my doctor if I think I have PFS?

Answer: If the pain from PFS does not diminish and you continue to suffer, definitely make an appointment with your doctor. You may need a more specific treatment plan or even surgery to fully find relief from PFS.

Information on foot, leg and lower body health conditions like PFS provided by The Podiatry Institute, dedicated to advancing the standard of care in podiatric medicine and its effects on muscoskeletal health.