About the condition
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (runner’s knee)
What is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome? Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a condition that causes pain around the front of the knee and the patella (kneecap). It is often referred to as "runner's knee" and is common among athletes, but it can affect anyone.
Symptoms
• Pain around the front of the knee, especially during activities such as running, squatting, or climbing stairs.
• Swelling and tenderness around the kneecap.
• A grinding or clicking sensation in the knee.
• Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or standing.
Causes
• Overuse or repetitive stress on the knee joint.
• Muscle imbalances or weakness in the thigh, leg and/or glute muscles.
• Poor alignment of the patella.
• Previous injuries to the knee.
• Wearing improper footwear.
• Biomechanics like a pronating foot type, valgus knee or sagittal plane blockade.
• Iliotibial band tightness.
• Tightrope or crossover and other running gait anomalies.
Diagnosis A podiatrist will diagnose patellofemoral pain syndrome based on your medical history and a physical examination of your knee. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions.
Treatment
• Relative Rest: Avoid activities that put stress on the knee joint.
• Footwear: Wear supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning. And suit your gait style.
• Orthotics: Use custom orthotic devices to support your feet and improve knee alignment.
• Symptom management: Apply ice, using analgesics and/or ibuprofen, massage, stretches and knee braces can help manage short term symptoms.
• Rehab: strengthening muscle imbalances, particular focus on vastus medialis and gluteus Medius have shown best results.
• Gait retraining: if running gait can be improved.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises and treatments to help alleviate pain and strengthen the muscles around the knee.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the alignment of the patella.
Prevention
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Wear supportive footwear.
• Avoid high-impact activities that put stress on the knee joint before your body is strong enough to withstand the impact forces.
• Stretch and strengthen the muscles around the knee.
• Gradually increase the intensity of your physical activities.
