Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a general term meaning pain
behind the kneecap. Generally, it is an overuse disorder from activities
involving running, cycling, jumping and kneeling.
| Normally,
there is a groove at the end of the thigh bone (femur) which
allows the kneecap (patella) to slide smoothly across it as the
thigh muscles (quadriceps) contracts to straighten the knee.
Repetitive
bending and straightening of the knee can cause the undersurface
of the patella to get irritated and inflamed as it rubs over the
end of the femur. If the patella does not align properly in the
groove as the quadriceps contracts to extend the leg, wearing of
the undersurface of the patella can occur. |
- Overpronated
or flat feet.
- "Knock
knees"
- Weak
thigh muscles
-
Sudden growth spurt during adolescence
These
conditions predispose PFPS because of the alignment of the knees
in relation to the hips and ankles. |
| The
symptoms of PFPS are: |
- Pain
surrounding the kneecap
- Pain
after rising from an extended period of sitting or crouched
position
- Pain
with descending stairs
- Pain
with kneeling, running or even walking.
- Occasionally
a clicking, or grinding sensation will occur.
|
- Use
an ice pack on the knee for 10-15 minutes every few hours
when pain is felt.
- Avoid
activities that are causing pain.
- See
a physiotherapist to start appropriate exercises for the
condition.
- Orthotics
(custom made shoe inserts) and / or special patella-aligning
knee brace are often prescribed for alignment problems.
|
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