Understanding Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a condition that many people experience at some point in their lives. It can be debilitating, causing significant disruption to daily activities. However, with the right understanding and treatment, it's possible to manage and recover from Patellofemoral pain syndrome.

In this blog article we will review the signs of Patellofemoral pain syndrome and how to manage the symptoms.

What is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

Patellofemoral pain syndrome occurs when there’s irritation of the nerve at the junction of the patellar tendon and femur. This causes pain in the knee joint, typically during activities that involve weight-bearing or movement. The condition can be acute or chronic, depending on how it developed.

Symptoms of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

The following are common symptoms related to PFPS.

1. Pain During Weight-Bearing: You may feel pain when standing or walking.
2. Sitting: Pain around the knee cap when sitting for prolonged periods.
3. Crepitus: A popping or grinding sensation in the knee joint during movement.
4. Muscle Tightness: The muscles around the knee may feel tight or spasm.
5. Swelling and Redness: There could be swelling near the knee which may be accompanied by redness.
6. Numbness or tingling: This can occur along the nerve supply to the leg.

Causes of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

PFPS is often related to overuse from activities like running or cycling. It can also be due to:

• Repetitive Movements - Sitting and standing.
• Tight or Valgus Knee - The knee joint not opening wide enough.
• Overloading - Exertion beyond the body's capacity during specific movements.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis:

Usually involves physical examination, medical history review, and sometimes imaging tests such as an MRI if needed.

Treatment:

1. Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms is crucial.
2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice can reduce swelling when pain is acute
3. Stretching: Gentle stretching exercises may help improve flexibility. Our blog article Stretching Exercises Help Relieve Knee Pain at Home is a good resource to start learning about knee-specific stretches.
4. Physical Therapy: Structured exercises to strengthen muscles and improve joint mobility.
5. Medications: NSAIDs like ibuprofen can relieve pain and inflammation.

A knee brace designed to address patella discomfort can be useful during physical activities and recovery. Knee braces can provide support for lateral patellar subluxation, dislocations or lateral patellofemoral malalignment.

When to Seek Medical Help

If PFPS symptoms persist  or worsen despite self-care measures, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice or recommend further evaluation if necessary.

Conclusion

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a manageable condition that often responds well to rest, ice, stretching, and physical therapy. Understanding the symptoms and causes helps in effective management. Seeking professional help when needed ensures a comprehensive approach to treatment.

By taking proactive steps, individuals can find relief from PFPS and return to normal activities without discomfort.

We're Here To Help

The team of experts at Elite Medical Supply of NY is here to help identify the right knee brace for your recovery. We offer a wide selection of braces from world-class manufacturers to alleviate pain and help heal your condition. Take a look at our selection of knee braces by clicking here.

When you're ready to order a brace or need assistance making a choice we're here to help. You can reach us at 866-712-0881, send us an email, or fill out a contact form.