Learn About Patello-Femoral Syndrome and How to Relieve Your Pain
Chronic knee pain behind or around the kneecap is often diagnosed as Patello-Femoral Syndrome, an abnormal softening of the cartilage that makes it difficult to move your knee.
Patello-Femoral Syndrome, also known as Chondromalacia or Runner’s Knee, occurs 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. The damage of Patello-Femoral Syndrome 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 Patello-Femoral Syndrome occur when a blow to the kneecap actually tears off a piece of articular cartilage or bone.
Runners, skiers, cyclists and soccer players most often come down with Patello-Femoral Syndrome.
What Causes Patello-Femoral Syndrome?
The softening of the kneecap’s articular cartilage that characterizes Patello-Femoral Syndrome can be caused by any of the following factors:
- Trauma
- Overuse
- Muscle weakness.
- Mal-alignment
- Age
Over-pronation can lead to mal-alignment, which means the lower leg twists inward while the quadriceps tendon pulls the patella outward. A tight hamstring, tight heel cords and tight quadriceps also contribute to the onset of Patello-Femoral Syndrome.
Young people who develop Patello-Femoral Syndrome can usually blame trauma or overuse; if Patello-Femoral Syndrome appears in someone older, this person may also have osteoarthritis.
If the knee pain and swelling due to Patello-Femoral Syndrome persists, consult your physician. Orthotics and/or surgery may be required to treat your case of Patello-Femoral Syndrome.
Information on foot, leg and lower body health conditions like Patello-Femoral Syndrome provided by The Podiatry Institute, dedicated to advancing the standard of care in podiatric medicine and its effects on muscoskeletal health.