Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)
Patellofemoral pain syndrome, commonly abbreviated to PFPS, is pain in and/or around your kneecap (patella). It often arises from running and jumping activities, hence, commonly referred to as “runner’s knee”.
Common Symptoms
- Pain at the front and/or around your knee
- Worsening pain during/after activity
- Pain when going up stairs and/or squatting
- Pain after prolonged periods of sitting
Risk Factors
How can physio help?
Your physiotherapist will complete a detailed assessment to find the underlying cause leading to the PFPS. Treatment will look to target findings from the assessment.
- Muscular imbalances – PFPS is commonly caused due to weak quadriceps (front of thigh) and gluteal muscles. These can be targeted through appropriate exercise prescription.
- Compensatory movements – target through appropriate strengthening and stretching to avoid overloading soft tissue structures in certain areas.
- Training routine – analysing your current training routine to identify if the appropriate gradual progressive intensity is in place
- Weight loss – often excess weight can increase pressure on the knees
- Appropriate footwear – identify if you are using the right shoes and if orthotics are required
- Warm up – practicing efficient warm up techniques to target specific structures involved in running