Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome - Find Patellofemoral Pain Sydrome Info & Products

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, characterized by chronic knee pain behind or around the kneecap, refers to an abnormal softening of the knee’s cartilage. People suffering from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome may find it difficult to move their knee.

Patellofemoral Pain 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 Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome can range from a slight abnormality of the cartilage surface, to a surface that has been completely worn away to the bone.

What Causes Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

The softening of the kneecap’s articular cartilage that characterizes Patellofemoral Pain 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 Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.

Young people who develop Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome can usually blame trauma or overuse; if Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome appears in someone older, this person may also have osteoarthritis.

Relieve and Prevent Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome can be treated with rest and ice to reduce swelling.

In addition, doctors recommend the following to help ease pain from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome:

Engaging in low impact exercises that strengthen muscles, particularly within the quadriceps, can relieve pain from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.
Swimming, riding a stationary bike or engaging in other low-impact exercises can help lessen pain from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.
Stretching and strengthening the hamstrings and quadriceps can help decrease Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome pain.
Using a knee brace provides relief from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.
Wearing shoes with added arch supports, especially during exercise or walking, is crucial to treating Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help relieve pain from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.

If Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome symptoms persist, consult your physician. Orthotics and/or surgery may be required to treat your specific case of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.

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