Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Specialist

What is patellofemoral pain syndrome?

Patellofemoral pain syndrome, the medical name for runner’s knee, is an umbrella term for several knee conditions. Its hallmark is pain in the front of the kneecap while running, bending, walking downstairs or downhill, squatting, or kneeling. 

What causes patellofemoral pain syndrome?

This condition has several causes, broadly divided into trauma and musculoskeletal imbalances:

• High-intensity, repetitive knee- bending and squatting
• Direct trauma to the kneecap, such as a blow or fall
• Misalignment of leg bones
• Weak thigh muscles (quadriceps)
• Foot problems, such as fallen arches and hypermobile ankle joints
• Breakdown of knee cartilage (chondromalacia)

How is runner’s knee diagnosed?

Our board-certified, fellowship-trained doctor will perform a thorough examination of your affected knee, evaluating your stance and asking you about your activities. He or she will also perform diagnostic tests such as x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or arthroscopy (small-incision surgery) to see inside the knee capsule. 

How is this condition treated?

Conservative measures are typically tried first, including icing the knee, avoiding triggering activities, performing stretching and strengthening exercises, or wrapping the knee for extra support.

In severe cases, our orthopedic surgeon can remove or replace damaged cartilage or correct the kneecap position to relieve joint stress.

Don’t take risks with a complex joint like the knee.  The board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons at Orthopedic Specialists have deep expertise in treating a wide array of knee conditions.  Call today or book an appointment online.