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Pattellofemoral Pain Syndrome |
by: Colleen Fuller, staff PT
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Definition
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome the result of abnormal alignment
(tracking) of the knee cap (patella). The kneecap normally goes up and down
in it's groove as the knee bends and straightens. When the patella is
misaligned, it, it will rub against the side of the groove and can cause
cartilage wear and tear. These physical and biomechanical changes in
the joint often result in pain behind the knee cap, known as retropatellar
pain. |
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Factors that affect patellar alignment |
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1. Bony- |
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High or Low Riding Patella (Patella alta or Patella Baja)
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Knock-kneed (Genu valgus) or bow-legged (Genu varum)
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Hyperextension (Recurvatum) of the knee
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2. Soft Tissue Tightness |
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Quadriceps Muscle, Hamstring Muscles, structures on
outside of knee.
When one or
all of these muscles become tight, excessive stress placed on the patella
can cause misalignment.
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3.
Muscle
Imbalance
– Weakness
of the VMO muscle (the only dynamic medial stabilizer of the knee) allows
the patella to track too far to the outside and causes degenerative changes
in this area. Pelvic muscle imbalances and deviations in an
individual’s gait pattern also contribute to patellofemoral pain syndrome.
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Signs & Symptoms |
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Anterior (front) Knee Pain that usually occurs after
prolonged sitting or activity.
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Increase or Decrease in pain intensity when descending
steps or hills.
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Crepitus- creaking in the joint or "rice krispies" in the
joint while bending and straightening the knee.
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Buckling of the knee.
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Locking or catching of the knee.
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Treatment |
Usually, physical therapy is prescribed and should include stretching,
strengthening, and patient education of your injury.
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Areas to be Stretched |
- ITB (iliotibial band)
- quadriceps muscle
- hamstring muscle
- tensor fascia lata
- calf (gastrocnemius) muscle
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Muscles to Strengthen |
- Quadriceps (primarily the VMO)
- Hip adductors
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Patient Education |
Avoid stair-climbing and sitting for prolonged periods of time. |
This is just an example of what treatment should include. Depending on
your individual case, your specific treatment may be altered. Although
it is important to stretch and strengthen your muscles even when no injury
is present, don't try to remedy Patellofemoral Pain yourself. If you
are experiencing symptoms described above, see your physician immediately to
get you into a rehabilitation program as soon as possible.
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Patellofemoral Pain Exercises |
