Knee pain can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life, hindering your ability to engage in activities you enjoy.
One common source of knee pain, particularly among active individuals, is patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). This condition, often referred to as “runner’s knee,” affects the joint between the kneecap (patella) and thighbone (femur).
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for PFPS is crucial for managing pain and returning to an active lifestyle.
Understanding Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
PFPS occurs when the cartilage under the kneecap becomes irritated or damaged, leading to pain and discomfort. It’s often caused by overuse, muscle imbalances, or misalignment of the kneecap.
Athletes, particularly runners, are prone to PFPS due to the repetitive stress placed on the knee joint during activities like running, jumping, and squatting.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of PFPS:
- Overuse:Repetitive activities that put stress on the knee joint, such as running, jumping, or squatting, can lead to overuse injuries like PFPS.
- Muscle Imbalances:Weakness or tightness in the muscles surrounding the knee, particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles, can alter the tracking of the kneecap and increase pressure on the joint.
- Foot Mechanics:Flat feet or high arches can affect the way your foot rolls inward or outward when you walk or run, potentially contributing to PFPS.
- Misalignment:Misalignment of the kneecap, pelvis, or lower leg can increase stress on the patellofemoral joint.
- Previous Injury:A prior knee injury, e.g., a dislocation or ligament tear, can increase the risk of developing PFPS.
Recognizing the Symptoms
The most common symptom of PFPS is pain around or behind the kneecap. This pain may worsen with activities that put stress on the knee, e.g., squatting, kneeling, climbing stairs, or running.
Other symptoms may include:
- Popping or cracking sensations in the knee
- Swelling in the knee
- Stiffness in the knee, especially after sitting for a long time
- Tenderness to touch around the kneecap
Managing and Treating Kneecap Pain
The good news is that PFPS is often treatable with conservative measures. The primary goals of treatment are to reduce pain, improve knee function, and prevent further damage to the joint.
Treatment options may include:
- Rest and Activity Modification:Reducing or avoiding activities that aggravate the pain is crucial for allowing the joint to heal.
- Physical Therapy:A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, improve flexibility, and correct any biomechanical issues.
- Pain Management:Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Bracing or Taping:Knee braces or taping techniques can help support the kneecap and improve its tracking.
- Orthotics:Custom orthotics can address foot mechanics issues that may contribute to PFPS.
In rare cases, surgery may be considered for severe or persistent PFPS that doesn’t respond to conservative treatment.
Houston Physicians’ Hospital: Your Partner in Knee Pain Treatment
The orthopedic physicians at the Orthopedic Center of Excellence at Houston Physicians Hospital understand the impact that knee pain can have on your life. They’re dedicated to providing comprehensive care for individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome and other knee conditions.
They offer a range of treatment options, including physical therapy services, knee pain treatment, knee surgery and hip arthritis treatments in Webster TX.
Learn more and find a doctor who’s right for you.