What is patellofemoral pain syndrome? Patellofemoral pain syndrome is pain behind the kneecap. It has been given many names, including patellofemoral disorder, patellar malalignment, runner's knee, and chondromalacia.

How does it occur? Patellofemoral pain syndrome can occur from overuse of the knee in sports and activities such as running, walking, jumping, or bicycling. The kneecap (patella) is attached to the large group of muscles in the thigh (quadriceps). It is also attached to the shin bone by the patellar tendon. With repeated bending and straightening of the knee, you can irritate the inside surface of the kneecap and cause pain. Patellofemoral pain syndrome also may result from the way one's hips, legs, knees, or feet are aligned. This mal-alignment can be caused by having wide hips or underdeveloped thigh muscles, being knock-kneed, or having feet with arches that collapse when walking or running (a condition called over-pronation).

What are the symptoms? The main symptom is pain behind the kneecap and pain at walking, runing, or sitting for a long time. The knee may swell at times, and one may feel or hear snapping, popping, or grinding in the knee.

How is it treated? X-Ray to analyse any changes in the patella stracture. To relive the pain and limit the amount of inflammation R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and anti-inflammatory drugs are used. Physical therapy is important to strengthen, restore full range of motion and elasticity of the muscles that bares the load and weight of the body. One may use shoe inserts (called orthotics) for over-pronation, infrapatellar strap, and neoprene knee sleeve, will give support to the knee and patella. Patellofemoral pain is often chronic and recurrent. Treatment requires proper rehabilitation exercises that are done regularly.

When can one return to my normal activities? Everyone recovers from an injury at a different rate. One may safely return to normal activities when the injured knee can be fully straightened and bent without pain, full range of motion and strenght regained compared to the uninjured knee and leg, and when one is able to walk, bend, and squat without pain.

How can patellofemoral pain syndrome can be prevented? Patellofemoral pain syndrome can best be prevented by strengthening the thigh muscles, ligaments and tendons, by wearing shoes that fit well and that have good arch supports.