Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Knee Pain

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is often a broad term used to describe pain and discomfort in the front of the knee and around the kneecap, or patella. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is sometimes also known as “runner’s knee” or “jumper’s knee” because it is common in people who participate in sports. However, patellofemoral pain syndrome can occur in the non-athletic population as well. The pain and stiffness caused by this syndrome can make it challenging to climb stairs, kneel down, and perform other everyday normal activities.

Anatomical Structure

The knee joint is the largest and most complex joint in the human body. It comprises the lower end of the femur (thigh bone), the upper end of the tibia (shin bone), and the patella (kneecap). Several ligaments and tendons connect the femur to the tibia. The four main knee ligaments attach to the bones and provide significant stability for the joint. The quadriceps muscle and tendon connects the front of the thigh to the patella. The patella rests in a groove on the top of the femur called the trochlea. When you bend or extend your knee, the kneecap slides back and forth inside this trochlear groove. Inside the knee joint, articular cartilage covers the ends of the bones in order to help the bones glide smoothly against each other.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome occurs when the structures inside the knee joint are either compressed, damaged, or become hypersensitive. This may occur as a result of kneecap alignment problems and overuse from vigorous athletics or training.

Vigorous physical activities such as jogging, squatting, and climbing stairs put repeated stress on the knee joint. Sudden change in physical activity can also lead to pain in the knee joint. Improper sports training techniques or equipment and changes in footwear can also lead to patellofemoral pain syndrome.

There may also be structural predispositions to patellofemoral pain syndrome where the patella is pushed out to one side of the groove when the knee is bent. This may cause increased pressure inside the knee joint, irritating the soft tissues. Problems in alignment of the lower extremity may result in a kneecap that shifts too far from its axis, causing pain. Weak or imbalanced quadriceps can cause poor tracking of the kneecap within the groove that can also lead to pain.

The Most Common Signs & Symptoms of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Dull, aching pain in the front of the knee
Knee pain during exercise, stair climbing, running, jumping, or squatting
Knee pain after prolonged sitting
Popping or crackling sounds in your knee

(Source: OrthoInfo)

What Are the Treatments for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

Marcel Jacobs PT provides a hands-on physical therapy approach which means you’re going to get fast access to immediate care in order to soothe and relax those tight and aching muscles, mobilize and loosen those restricted and painful joints, and strengthen your body so that you can go back to doing the things that you love. Your therapist will perform a thorough physical examination and evaluation in order to provide you with a deeper understanding of your impairments, compensations, and dysfunctions. You may find yourself having your concerns eased, questions answered, and physical pain reduced inside of 45 minutes with your physical therapist.

Importance of physical therapy for an athlete: Goes beyond just recovering from injury

Often most people associate physical therapy with the athletes to recover them from injuries, but physical therapy does not stop there. It goes beyond just recovery. With physical therapy, athletes can further their performance, prevent injuries from happening, and ensure optimal function. From physical therapy for neck pain to back

Physical Therapy: Why should you consider it as an alternative for your body pain?

Pain in the body can be extremely debilitating, taking away your day-to-day activities, work, or even overall quality of life. In many cases, most of those who experience such occurrences result in medications or even surgical procedures just for the relief that they need. A great and effective alternative is

Understanding the psychology behind neck pain and knowing the benefits of therapy.

Neck pain is a prevalent issue affecting millions worldwide, stemming from various causes such as poor posture, muscle strain, injury, or underlying medical conditions. While it can be debilitating and affect one’s quality of life, physical therapy for neck pain emerges as a cornerstone in the realm of rehabilitation, offering

Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic pain disorder characterized by sensitive points in your muscles, also known as trigger points. Trigger points can cause pain in the muscle and may affect unrelated parts of your body, also known as pain referral. Typically, repetitive muscle contraction can lead to this syndrome.

Meniscus Tears

Meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries. Any form of activity that suddenly requires you to forcefully twist or rotate your knee, especially when putting your full weight on it, can lead to a meniscus tear. There are different types of tears in the different types of

Iliotibial Band (ITB) Syndrome

Iliotibial band syndrome occurs when the iliotibial band gets irritated or swollen from rubbing against your hip or knee bones. The tendon spans the outside of your thigh from the top of your pelvic bone down to your knee. Typically, you are at greater risk for developing iliotibial band syndrome

Dr. Marcel Jacobs

Dr. Marcel Jacobs is The Human Movement Consultant. As a licensed physical therapist, and certified strength coach, Marcel has a very unique and empathetic treatment approach that instills motivation and confidence in his patients. Marcel offers a variety of life-changing treatment approaches to help his patients get the relief they are looking for to get back to doing the things they love! He has been helping people just like you for years who want to keep active and love to be healthy in order to enjoy their lives to the fullest. Whether it be for pain, stiffness, or movement dysfunction, every week 100’s of people consult Dr. Marcel Jacobs looking for answers to concerning questions about their physical health. As the Human Movement Consultant, Marcel is a trusted health advisor, and expert of the rehabilitation of human movement and performance, and pain management. Marcel offers individual care and corporate solutions that significantly contribute to improved productivity and lower health costs, and promotes a preventative medical approach to mitigate injury risk and enhance human movement and function.

We Are Located In Midtown Manhattan In NYC | 295 Madison Ave, Lower Level, New York, NY 10017

Call Now (646) 450-2966