Patello-Femoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a broad term used for knee pain. Patellofemoral pain is more specifically used to refer to pain in the front of the knee and around the kneecap. This kind of pain is more commonly known as “runner’s knee” or “jumper’s knee” – sound more familiar without the big fancy scientific word?
While knee pain is most common in athletes Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome can occur in non-athletes as well. The reason for this is that while one cause of knee pain is overuse (cue all athletes) another cause is Patellar Malalignments. The knee is the largest joint in your whole body and the structure of it is complex. There are four main ligaments in each of your knees along with along with tendons, cartilage and other tissue- this leaves a lot of room for damage. In Patellar Malalignment there is abnormal tracking of the kneecap in your trochlear groove which as a result irritates the surrounding soft tissue. Problems that might occur as a result of this misalignment include problems with leg alignment between hip and ankles and/or muscular imbalances or weakness. Did you know that knee pain like this is easily relieved with physical therapy and there are exercises that you can do to prevent major pain from returning in the future?
Symptoms of this pain syndrome range from knee pain after sitting or standing for too long- often accompanied with a popping or cracking sound- to difficulty walking up and down stair or kneeling down. Remedies for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome range from home remedies such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation to surgical options that could remove cartilage or loosen tissue. If you are experiencing knee pain you should consult a doctor to see what therapy option is right for you. In many cases it is important that people suffering from knee pain go a step further than icing and elevating and see a physical therapist; Who can help manipulate the area to relieve knee pain as well as show people with Patellofemoral Pain, techniques to prevent future pain in the target area.
Did you know that you have Direct Access to Physical Therapy? No referral is needed. We offer the best Physical Therapy on Long Island where you can get help from our trusted and expert Physical Therapists. To start your Physical Therapy evaluation, call Park Physical Therapy at (516) 798-3789 today!
