Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

What is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

IAlso known as  “Overload Syndrome,” “Runners” or “Jumpers” knee, Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a very common overuse injury. PFPS is caused by vigorous physical activities that put repeated stress on your knee. Activities may include jogging, squatting, and climbing stairs, and it can also be caused by a sudden change in your physical activity as well. PFPS commonly affects adolescent and young adult athletes and manual laborers. Women are twice as likely to develop PFPS than men. PFPS is one of the five most common injuries in young female athletes as well.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome - David R. Kerbl
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), the dull pain in front of your knee when squatting, climbing stairs or sitting.

When should I seek treatment for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

When you feel dull pain in the front of your knee when squatting, climbing stairs or after long duration of sitting. This pain typically lasts for more than 2 days. My patients usually seek out medical treatment as a first line of care. Rest and anti-inflammatory modalities are typically the first line of treatment.

When should I see a foot specialist for my knee pain?

At my Ottawa Chiropody office, I tend to only see chronic cases of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. The majority of my PFPS patients have not had a podiatric biomechanical assessment as part of their initial PFPS care.  Virtually every PFPS patient I see in my clinic benefits from orthotic management. If you are experiencing symptoms associated with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, I recommend calling the Kanata Medi-Team Clinic at 613-592-1448 or the Orleans Foot Clinic at 613-841-8500

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