The collective term “patellofemoral pain syndrome” refers to pain in the front of the knee and the kneecap (patella). The pain usually occurs behind the kneecap but can also radiate into the areas in front of and around the kneecap.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is very common and one of the most frequent problems in the front of the knee. Generally, pain first occurs during strain such as using the stairs, hill walks or skiing.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome frequently affects young, active women, but also people who enjoy sports that put a lot of strain on the knee from jumping, shock absorbing or decelerating.
Additionally, misalignments such as knock knees, anomalies such as a high-riding patella, muscular imbalances and muscles that are too weak to stabilise the kneecap can be a trigger for patellofemoral pain syndrome.
In the case of patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), the pain occurs in the patellar guidance channel between the thigh bone and the kneecap. If the kneecap isn’t positioned exactly in this guidance channel, knee pain will occur, in particular during strain.
Many people know patellofemoral pain syndrome under its previous descriptions “chondropathy” or “chondropathia patellae.” In Germany, the condition is also known as front knee pain, retropatellar pain syndrome, retropatellar joint pain or retropatellar pain, but parapatellar pain syndrome, chondromalacia patellae, chondromalacia patellae and chondromalacia are also used. The abbreviation PFPS is also used for patellofemoral pain syndrome and FPS for femoropatellar pain syndrome.
The exact cause of patellofemoral pain syndrome often remains unidentified. However, there are various situations that can trigger the condition:
Muscular imbalances
The patella usually sits in the guidance channel of the thigh bone. This acts as a guide rail. The patella is also stabilised by the muscles and lateral ligaments. If the path of the patella is changed due to muscular imbalances, friction can occur that may cause severe pain.
Misalignment of the patella
The surrounding ligaments and muscles pull the patella more to one side, which results in deformation or misalignment of the patella. The patient suffers from iliotibial band syndrome (runner’s knee) caused by excessive strain on the tractus iliotibialis. This is a fascial strip that supports the muscles on the outside of the thigh.
Malformation (dysplasia) of the patella
If the kneecap has an asymmetric shape, the term is “patella dysplasia.” This malformation is usually congenital and, based on excessive one-sided strain, can cause increased cartilage wear underneath the kneecap.
Knock knees
In cases of leg misalignment, the knee isn’t loaded correctly, resulting in inappropriate stress. This can lead to cartilage wear and joint damage and consequently retropatellar joint pain, i.e. pain behind the kneecap.
Conservative therapy, particularly when comprehensive treatment includes various elements, can be very successful in the case of patellofemoral pain syndrome. A combination of medical products, controlled movement, physical therapy and self-management is the key to success.
In the case of chronic or acute knee joint pain, knee orthoses or supports can be used. A reduction in pain can be achieved thanks to additional stabilisation and compression of the knee joint. To complement the medical product used on the knee, it is often necessary to have orthopaedic insoles made.
In order to counteract recurring pain, a knee orthosis or support can also be worn preventatively against excessive strain.
Orthosis used to influence the path of the patella
The JuzoPro Patella Xtec Plus is used to treat patellofemoral pain syndrome. The orthosis features a horseshoe-shaped pad around the kneecap. It is centred by a closure mechanism that guides the path of the kneecap. Thanks to its nubs, this pad also stimulates the muscles on the inside of the thigh (musculus vastus medialis). A second pad relieves the patellar tendon and alleviates pain thanks to its nubs.
During the acute phase, whatever is causing the strain should be stopped immediately. As soon as it’s not too painful, targeted mobilisation can start. The type and extent of the exercises should be discussed with the doctor supervising treatment. Resting for too long can have a counter-productive effect because the supporting muscles can atrophy, causing increasing imbalances. Regular exercises strengthen the muscles, thus compensating for imbalances.
In addition to regular exercise, comprehensive treatment also includes physical therapy. With this process, it’s important to adjust the methods to suit the indication and the individual’s pain level.
Physical therapy includes, for example, treatment such as physiotherapy, manual therapy, massage, thermotherapy, electrotherapy, ultrasound and hydrotherapy. Several treatment options can be combined.
Shock wave therapy, injection therapy, Kinesio taping and acupuncture are other treatment options.
How you can positively influence the treatment of your patella tip syndrome.
Knee pain can have various causes. Get an overview and act accordingly.
