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Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a pain at the front of the knee and is one of the key complaints of sport participants. Typically the PFPS produces pain or discomfort in the region of the knee cap (patella). The pain originates from the under surface of the patella where it forms a joint with the thigh bone (femur); hence the name patellofemoral pain.
What are the causes?
1. Training for volume
2. Method of training
3. Biomechanical factors
4. Muscle weakness
5. Tight or excessively lax supporting ligaments
How is PFPS diagnosed? PFPS is diagnosed by noting a set of symptoms and physical characteristics. Common symptoms are an aching pain or discomfort in the front of the knee, made worse by exercise, or movements where the knee is flexed. Going up and down hills or stairs, deep knee bends or squats are common activities that worsen tenderness on the under surface of the patella and pain when pressing down on the patella while contracting the quadriceps muscle.
How is PFPS treated? Each treatment is individualized through discussion with your health professional, and progress should be monitored regularly. Treatment usually takes place in three phases. Phase 1 controls pain and inflammation. Phase 2 restores strength and function. Phase 3 is a return to exercise and sports.
PFPS is very common. It usually responds will to conservative treatment and most people have no significant long term consequences of their condition. Of all the treatments that are available for PFPS, strengthening the quadriceps muscles remains the single most effective.
Dr. Gagner
What are the causes?
1. Training for volume
2. Method of training
3. Biomechanical factors
4. Muscle weakness
5. Tight or excessively lax supporting ligaments
How is PFPS diagnosed? PFPS is diagnosed by noting a set of symptoms and physical characteristics. Common symptoms are an aching pain or discomfort in the front of the knee, made worse by exercise, or movements where the knee is flexed. Going up and down hills or stairs, deep knee bends or squats are common activities that worsen tenderness on the under surface of the patella and pain when pressing down on the patella while contracting the quadriceps muscle.
How is PFPS treated? Each treatment is individualized through discussion with your health professional, and progress should be monitored regularly. Treatment usually takes place in three phases. Phase 1 controls pain and inflammation. Phase 2 restores strength and function. Phase 3 is a return to exercise and sports.
PFPS is very common. It usually responds will to conservative treatment and most people have no significant long term consequences of their condition. Of all the treatments that are available for PFPS, strengthening the quadriceps muscles remains the single most effective.
Dr. Gagner