Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)

BeachLife Physio • 20 March 2020

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)

What is PFPS?
  • An umbrella term for pain in the knee that occurs behind or around the kneecap.
  • PFPS is commonly painful with climbing stairs, running, cycling, squatting or sitting with bent knees.
Who is affected by PFPS?
  • Young adults/adolescents
  • Women are around twice as more likely to develop PFPS than males
  • Participation in certain sports, such as long distance running or basketball/netball

What can cause PFPS?
  • Anatomical malalignment of the patella
  • Biomechanical abnormalities
  • Muscular imbalances
  • Knee hyperextension
  • Tightness in the ITB, hamstrings or calves

Physio Treatment options:
  • Release of tight muscles
  • Strengthening of surrounding musculature
  • Assessment of walking/running biomechanics
  • Patella taping
  • Foot orthotics
  • Assistance with returning to sport/activity

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a complex condition, with many factors that can contribute to the feeling of anterior knee pain. Here at Beachlife Physiotherapy, we take both a hands on and exercise based approach to treating your knee pain. Book in today for a treatment or running assessment, with one of our physios if you are training for your next big race!
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