Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Introduction Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a term used to describe pain in the front of the knee around the patella. It is a condition in which the cartilage under the patella is damaged due to an injury or a chronic stress. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is also known as runner’s knee, jumper’s knee, and can also be referred to as, anterior knee pain syndrome. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is more commonly found in the female sex, and in young adult athletes. However, studies have shown that patellofemoral pain syndrome can also be in older patients but it is very rare, and may have different causes behind it.
Anatomy
The patella is made up of several structures, that all work together to assist the knee in movement, and to stabilize the
When sitting for a long period of time, pain may also occur once the patient begins to stand back up. There may be pain when squatting as well. If the patient changes his or her activity intensity, or playing surface, pain may appear. The patient will need to report if he or she hears any popping or cracking sound while squatting, going up the stairs, or sitting down for long periods of time. During the doctor visit the doctor may check the alignment in the lower leg, and the position of the patella. The doctor may also check knee stability, hip rotation, the range of motion in the knee and hip, as well as the different muscle attachment sites, to check for muscle weaknesses. He then may or may not get a MRI to do further
However several different medicines may affect the patient differently from another. Most of these medications include, but are not limited to, corticoid steroids, which are used to reduce any inflammation the patient may have. Another way of treating and preventing patellofemoral pain syndrome is with a type of taping. Taping includes using adhesive tape strips, preferably by Mc Connel. When the tape is put medially it can correct lateral mal-tracking and a patella tilt. It is during this time that the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) is then activated. Another form of nonsurgical treatment for patellofemoral syndrome is bracing. The brace when applied has an external medial directed force, which can reduce the lateralization of the patella and the tilt. During this time is when the quadriceps muscles are activated. This step has a positive effect on pain, function, and the patellofemoral angel. Last but not least, several patients may be issued to wear orthotics. Orthotics may increase rear-foot inversion, and pes pronatus, favoring internal rotation, with a dynamic valgus position of the lower extremities. Foot orthotics will cause this to be a therapeutic option to overcorrect malalignment. The patient may also be able to try some exercising to prevent pain of the patella. Some exercises include, but are not limited to, the hamstring stretch, quadriceps isometric