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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