Learn How to Relieve Your Pain Caused by Patella Femoral Syndrome

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

Runners, skiers, cyclists and soccer players most often come down with Patella Femoral Syndrome.

Traumatic cases of Patella Femoral Syndrome occur when a blow to the kneecap actually tears off a piece of articular cartilage or bone.

What are the Symptoms of Patella Femoral Syndrome?

Patella Femoral Syndrome usually presents itself as a dull pain around or under the kneecap.

Pain from Patella Femoral Syndrome can worsen when engaging in any of these activities:

• Walking up or down stairs can increase the pain from Patella Femoral Syndrome.
• Walking on a hill can contribute to the pain of Patella Femoral Syndrome.
• Taking part in any activity that forces the knee to bear weight as it’s straightened can worsen pain from Patella Femoral Syndrome.
• Running and sports activities can also cause more Patella Femoral Syndrome related knee pain.

Relieve and Prevent Patella Femoral Syndrome

Patella Femoral Syndrome can be treated with rest and ice to reduce swelling.

In addition, doctors recommend the following to help ease pain from Patella Femoral Syndrome:

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

If the knee pain and swelling due to Patella Femoral Syndrome persists, consult your physician. Orthotics and/or surgery may be required to treat your case of Patella Femoral Syndrome.

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