Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a syndrome characterized by pain or discomfort seemingly originating from the contact of the posterior surface of the patella (back of the kneecap) with the femur (thigh bone). It is a frequently encountered diagnosis in physiotherapy clinic. It is a combination of the problem’s such as mal tracking of knee cam, arthritis changes along with muscle weakness and muscle tightness.
Main Symptoms
The cause of pain and dysfunction often results from either abnormal forces (e.g. increased pull of the lateral quadriceps retinaculum with acute or chronic lateral PF subluxation/dislocation).
Prolonged repetitive compressive or shearing forces (running or jumping) on the PF joint.The result is thinning and softening (chondromalacia) of the articular cartilage under the patella.
The medial or lateral femoral condyles, synovial irritation and inflammation and subchondral bony changes in the distal femur or patella known as "bone bruises".
Secondary causes of PF Syndrome are fractures, internal knee derangement, OA of the knee and bony tumors in or around the knee.
Knee pain while Driving, Climbing stairs walking on slop etc..
Management
Physiotherapy : Physiotherapy could help in such kind of knee pain mainly by taping, Myotherapy, Trigger point therapy muscle stretches and strengthening exercises.