Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner Knee)
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a common knee condition characterized by pain around the kneecap, often resulting from biomechanical issues, such as misalignment of the patella, muscle imbalances, or overuse during activities like running and jumping. Statistics show that PFPS affects approximately 15-25% of the general population, with a higher prevalence in athletes and young females, particularly during their teenage years. Many individuals experience significant improvement within 6-12 weeks with proper rehab.
Sign and Symptoms:
- Knee pain over behind the kneecap increases with activities like climbing stairs, squatting, or sitting for long periods.
- Swelling around the knee
- Crepitus like grinding or popping sensation
- Stiffness usually occurs after prolonged sitting (moviegoer's knee).
- Weakness or instability over affected knee
- Difficulty with movement during bending or weight-bearing activity
- Physiotherapy Managements:
- Assessment and Education:
- Comprehensive Assessment: patient's history, alignment, range of motion, strength and functional capabilities.
- Education: Condition, activity modification, and pain management
- Pain Management:
- Modalities: Use ice or heat, electrical stimulation
- Manual therapy: Gentle mobilization of the patella and surrounding joints to improve mobility.
- Strengthening Exercises: Targeted Strengthening by focusing on strengthening the quadriceps
- Flexibility Training: Stretching to improve flexibility and reduce tension around the knee.
- Balance and Proprioception: To enhance stability and coordination.
- Functional Training:
- Gradual return to activities: Functional movements and sport-specific drills as tolerated.
- Biomechanics education: Teach proper movement patterns to avoid recurrence of pain.
- Long-Term Maintenance:
- Home exercise program: Tailored-made program to maintain strength and flexibility.
- Ongoing education: Awareness of body mechanics and injury prevention strategies.
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