Patellofemoral knee pain, often referred to as runner’s knee or patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), is a common issue that affects people of all ages and activity levels. As a physical therapist specializing in orthopedic rehabilitation, I frequently work with individuals dealing with this condition. In this guide, I’ll explain what patellofemoral knee pain is, what to expect during rehabilitation, and how physical therapy can help you recover and regain pain-free function.

What is Patellofemoral Knee Pain?

Patellofemoral knee pain involves discomfort around or behind the kneecap (patella). It often results from overuse, biomechanical issues, muscle imbalances, or injury. Activities such as running, jumping, squatting, and prolonged sitting can exacerbate symptoms. Common symptoms include:

• Pain around the kneecap, particularly when climbing stairs, squatting, or sitting for extended periods.

• Swelling around the knee joint.

Rehabilitation Expectations

Rehabilitation for patellofemoral knee pain aims to reduce pain, improve knee function, correct contributing factors, and prevent recurrence. Here’s what to expect during your rehabilitation journey with a physical therapist:

1. Comprehensive Assessment: Your physical therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation to assess your pain level, joint range of motion, muscle strength, flexibility, and movement patterns.

2. Pain Management: Initially, treatment focuses on pain relief through techniques such as ice therapy, manual therapy, and activity modification to reduce aggravating factors.

3. Muscle Strengthening: Strengthening exercises target muscles around the knee, particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles. Stronger muscles provide better support and stability to the knee joint.

4. Flexibility and Mobility: Stretching exercises help improve flexibility in tight muscles, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, which can alleviate stress on the kneecap and surrounding structures.

5. Biomechanical Correction: Your physical therapist will assess your movement patterns (such as how you walk, run, or squat) to identify any biomechanical issues contributing to your knee pain. Corrective exercises and movement retraining may be prescribed to improve alignment and reduce joint stress.

6. Activity Modification and Gradual Return to Activities: Your therapist will guide you in modifying activities to avoid aggravating your symptoms. As you progress, they will gradually reintroduce activities and sports-specific exercises to safely return you to your desired level of activity.

7. Education and Prevention Strategies: You will receive education on proper body mechanics, warm-up routines, footwear selection, and strategies to prevent future episodes of knee pain.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for Patellofemoral Knee Pain

Physical therapy offers numerous benefits in managing and recovering from patellofemoral knee pain:

• Individualized Care: Your rehabilitation plan is tailored to your specific needs, goals, and activity level.

• Pain Relief Techniques and exercises are aimed at reducing pain and inflammation.

• Improved Function: Strengthening and flexibility exercises restore normal knee mechanics and improve overall joint function.

• Prevention: Learning proper movement patterns and strengthening strategies can prevent future injuries and recurrences of knee pain.

Conclusion

Patellofemoral knee pain can be a frustrating condition, but with the guidance of a skilled physical therapist, you can effectively manage your symptoms and regain pain-free function. Through targeted exercises, pain management techniques, and education on injury prevention, physical therapy empowers you to take control of your recovery and return to the activities you enjoy. If you’re experiencing knee pain or suspect you may have patellofemoral pain syndrome, don’t hesitate to seek evaluation and treatment from a qualified physical therapist. Together, we can work towards overcoming your knee pain and improving your quality of life.