Do you have pain in the front of your knee? Does it get worse when you climb stairs, run, jump or squat? You may have a common knee pain called runner’s knee or patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).
Read on to learn more about PFPS, its causes, symptoms and treatments available to help you feel better and get moving again without pain.
PFPS is a condition that causes pain in and around the knee. Patellofemoral means kneecap (patella) and thigh bone (femur). This describes the area where the pain is located.
Usually, the patella fits into a groove in your femur. It should slide smoothly along that space when you move your knee. If you have PFPS, the patella doesn’t move or track properly within the groove of the femur.
PFPS doesn’t only affect runners. It can affect anyone who participates in activities that require repetitive knee movement.
PFPS is caused by an imbalance of forces over your kneecap. Several factors can lead to this misalignment, including:
Anyone can develop PFPS. However, some people are more likely to experience it, including:
The primary symptom of PFPS is dull, aching pain around the front of the knee, particularly:
Some people hear or feel a rubbing, grinding or clicking sound of the kneecap when they bend or straighten their knee. The kneecap may also be tender to touch.
Your health care provider can diagnose PFPS by looking at your medical history and doing a physical exam. They will look at knee alignment, range of motion, strength and stability. They may also ask you to squat, jump or put pressure on the patellofemoral joint.
If needed, your provider may order other imaging tests, like an X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound.
Once diagnosed, PFPS is usually treated with conservative care (non-surgical treatments). This may include:
In rare cases, a knee arthroscopy may be recommended for younger patients without signs of significant arthritic components. This type of surgery is minimally invasive, with a few small cuts (incisions) in the skin around the knee. It is typically considered only when several months of conservative treatment fails to relieve pain and improve function. Knee arthroscopy may also be needed if you have cartilage damage or misalignment of the kneecap.
Most people recover from PFPS within a month or two. Your health care provider and physical therapist will give you a timeline based on your needs, strength and activity level. You may have to change or take a break from usual activities until you no longer feel pain or other symptoms.
To prevent PFPS, here are a few tips to keep your knees healthy:
Banner Health is committed to providing personal care for people with PFPS. Our team includes orthopedic specialists, sports medicine specialists, physical therapists and pain management experts dedicated to helping you recover and return to your active lifestyle.
Contact Banner Health today and take the first step towards pain-free movement.