Beat Knee Pain: Your Guide to Patellofemoral Pain & Physiotherapy!

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) causes knee discomfort and challenges many individuals. PFPS commonly affects active adolescents, young adults, and athletes engaged in repetitive knee movements (e.g. running, jumping, squatting). It is also prevalent among individuals with muscle imbalances and a history of knee injuries. Let’s break down PFPS and understand how physiotherapy can help, ensuring a return to an active life.

Understanding PFPS:

PFPS can manifest as persistent knee pain, especially when bending or climbing stairs. Often described as a dull, aching discomfort beneath or around the kneecap. PFPS results from factors like muscle imbalances and abnormal knee movement. Physiotherapists diagnose these issues through assessments, pinpointing weaknesses, and abnormal movement patterns.

Treatments:

Muscle Strengthening: Targeted exercises focusing on the quadriceps, particularly the VMO, form the cornerstone of PFPS physiotherapy.

Stretching and Flexibility: Physiotherapists can prescribe specific stretching routines to alleviate tightness in structures such as the iliotibial band and hamstrings. Improved flexibility reduces stress on the knee during movement.

Biomechanical Correction: Techniques like taping and orthotic prescription are can be used to assist with patellar alignment, correcting abnormal biomechanics and promoting pain-free movement.

Final Thoughts…

PFPS, though challenging, can be managed through simple yet effective physiotherapy techniques. By correctly diagnosing, understanding the problem, tailored exercises, and patient education, physiotherapy becomes a guiding light, helping individuals overcome knee pain and regain their active lives.