What Is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and Who Gets It
Knee pain can sneak up on anyone: athletes, office workers, or busy parents alike. You might feel a dull ache around your kneecap when climbing stairs, sitting for too long, or heading out for a jog. That discomfort could be more than simple overuse, or it may be patellofemoral pain syndrome, one of the most common and treatable causes of front knee pain. Fortunately, the team at ARC Physical Therapy can address the issues, allowing you to move forward without hesitation and maintain your knee health for the long run.
A Deeper Dive Into Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
PFPS affects the front of the knee, where the kneecap (patella) meets the thigh bone (femur). Many people describe it as a dull ache behind or around the kneecap that worsens when they climb stairs, squat, run, or sit for long periods.
The condition occurs when the kneecap doesn’t move smoothly in its groove during bending or straightening. This improper movement irritates the surrounding tissue, causing pain and swelling. PFPS is often called “runner’s knee,” but you don’t need to be a runner to develop it.
So, Who Does Get Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?
Runners and Active Individuals
- As the common name suggests, runners are more susceptible. Repetitive knee bending increases pressure under the kneecap.
Teens and Young Adults
- Rapid growth and increased participation in sports can lead to imbalances around the knee.
Women
- Anatomical differences, such as wider hips, can alter knee alignment, making women more susceptible to PFPS than men.
Workers with Repetitive Knee Movements
- Occupations requiring kneeling, squatting, or climbing can strain the joint.
People with Weak Hip or Thigh Muscles
- These muscles help control knee movement. Weakness can cause the kneecap to track incorrectly.
What Causes PFPS?
PFPS typically results from a combination of factors rather than a single specific injury:
- Repeated stress from activities such as running, jumping, or cycling can strain the knee joint.
- Muscle imbalances, such as weak quadriceps, hip abductors, or glute muscles, reduce stability.
- Flat feet, knock knees, or rotated hips can change how the kneecap moves.
- Worn shoes or hard running surfaces increase joint stress.
- Sudden changes in activity, like rapidly increasing mileage or workout intensity, can overload the knee.
Symptoms To Watch Out For
Symptoms of patellofemoral pain syndrome vary, but most patients experience:
- Aching or sharp pain at the front of the knee
- Discomfort during stairs, squats, or prolonged sitting
- A grinding or popping sound when bending the knee
- Occasional swelling around the kneecap
- A feeling that the knee might give out
How Physical Therapy Helps Address Knee Pain
Physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for patellofemoral pain syndrome. One of our physical therapists will begin by evaluating posture, gait, strength, and mobility to identify the root cause of knee pain. We’ll then develop a personalized treatment plan that combines various techniques, including:
- Strengthening exercises that focus on the quadriceps, glutes, and hips to improve knee alignment and stability
- Stretching and mobility work to loosen tight muscles, such as the hamstrings or iliotibial (IT) band, that pull on the knee
- Taping or bracing to provide support and help guide proper kneecap tracking
- Hands-on manual therapy techniques to reduce stiffness and restore normal joint motion.
- Movement retraining that teaches you better running, walking, and squatting mechanics to prevent recurrence
Furthermore, the earlier you start physical therapy, the better: it can help reduce pain, restore function, and enable individuals to return to normal activities safely and efficiently.
Take the First Step Toward Knee Pain Relief
You don’t have to live with ongoing knee pain or give up the activities you enjoy. At ARC Physical Therapy, our experienced therapists specialize in diagnosing and treating patellofemoral pain syndrome. We’ll identify the cause of your pain and develop a personalized plan to help you move confidently again.
Contact us today to schedule your assessment and discover how physical therapy can provide lasting relief for your knee.