Patellofemoral Pain

by Carolyn Poston, PT

Patellofemoral pain is a common problem affecting one in four or 2.5 million Americans. Patellofemoral refers to the join that includes the knee cap (patella) and the thigh bone (femur). Patellofemoral pain is characterized by pain felt behind or around the knee cap, grinding noises can occur when bending and straightening the knee, and the knee may feel like it will give way for no apparent reason. It can result from malalignment of the patella on the femur, weakness of the quadriceps muscles, or tight structures on the lateral or posterior aspect of the knee.

  Your doctor may prescribe a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory to help with pain or discomfort. Conservative treatment in the clinic of strengthening and stretching many times will relieve symptoms. Goals of rehabilitation are to normalize range of motion, strength, and flexibility, which is accomplished by an initial assessment and initiation of a comprehensive and individualized treatment program.