Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
Introduction
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), also known as “runner’s knee,” is a condition characterized by pain around the kneecap (patella), often aggravated by activity, prolonged sitting, or stair climbing. It is a common musculoskeletal complaint among athletes and non-athletes alike.
Causes
- Overuse or repetitive stress on the knee joint
- Improper alignment of the patella
- Weak quadriceps or hip muscles
- Flat feet or improper foot biomechanics
- Sudden changes in physical activity
Symptoms
- Dull, aching pain in the front of the knee
- Worsens with sitting, squatting, running, or stair climbing
- Sensation of grinding or clicking under the kneecap
- Swelling around the knee joint
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is primarily clinical through physical examination. Imaging like X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out structural abnormalities or other knee pathologies.
Physiotherapy Management
Physiotherapy is the first-line treatment for PFPS. It aims to reduce pain, improve patellar tracking, and strengthen muscles around the knee and hip. Treatment may include:
- Strengthening exercises (quadriceps, gluteal muscles)
- Stretching tight structures like IT band and hamstrings
- Patellar taping techniques
- Postural and gait correction
- Education about activity modification
Other Treatments
- NSAIDs for pain and inflammation
- Orthotic supports for foot correction
- Ice therapy post-activity
- In rare cases, surgery may be considered
Precautions
- Avoid activities that cause pain
- Warm up properly before exercise
- Use appropriate footwear
- Gradually increase activity level
FAQs – Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
A condition causing pain around the kneecap due to improper alignment or overuse.
It can be caused by overuse, muscular imbalance, poor foot mechanics, or trauma.
No, PFPS is not arthritis. It is a soft tissue and alignment-related condition.
Young adults, athletes, and individuals with poor lower limb biomechanics are at higher risk.
Yes, most cases respond well to physiotherapy and conservative treatments.
Recovery typically takes a few weeks to months depending on severity and compliance.
Yes, walking on even surfaces is generally safe. Avoid stairs or inclines initially.
Patellar braces or taping may help improve alignment and reduce symptoms.
Avoid aggravating exercises but continue low-impact activities and rehab.
Quad strengthening, gluteal activation, and stretching of hamstrings and IT band.
It can if the root cause isn't addressed. Long-term rehab is key to prevention.
Through clinical examination and tests; imaging may be used to exclude other issues.
Yes, excess weight adds stress on the knee and may worsen symptoms.
Yes, swimming is a low-impact exercise that doesn’t stress the knee joint.
Supportive, cushioned shoes that correct foot posture are ideal.