Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

01 Jun Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a condition that causes aching pain and irritation throughout the knee. Also referred to as runner’s knee, PFPS usually affects the young, athletic, and the constantly active.

PFPS is usually caused by overuse. Activities that involve running, jumping, and squatting put intense pressure on the knee, which can eventually cause damage. Other causes of PFPS include direct injuries to the knee, abruptly changes in the frequency of exercise, and misalignment of the knee joint. Those affected by patellofemoral pain syndrome, usually experience feelings of dull or aching pain in the knee. This pain will become worse when taking part in physical activities that require the knee to bend. This includes walking up and down stairs, sitting, or kneeling for extended periods of time, and going up or down hills.

• Injection Therapy

Injection therapy provides many benefits towards alleviating knee pain. Depending on the nature of your knee injury, our orthopedist in Valley Stream may recommend Platelet-Rich Plasma, Cortisone Injections, and more. The benefits of injection therapy are that they are minimally invasive and a longer-term solution towards chronic knee pain.

• Surgery

If other treatment options have not provided relief, having a surgery such as a lateral release might be your best option. This procedure will essentially realign the kneecap to its proper position. Talk to our orthopedist in Wantagh to learn more about this procedure.

• R.I.C.E

At the first sign of knee pain, following the principles of R.I.C.E  are a great way to manage the symptoms of PFPS. These principles include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the knee. They should significantly reduce inflammation and swelling in the knee, which will help with the healing process.

• Exercises

Certain therapeutic exercises can also be beneficial in conjunction with other therapies. If our orthopedist feels physical therapy is necessary, he will provide you a prescription.

• Knee Braces

Using a knee brace on the affected knee is an easy and effective way to manage PFPS pain. Knee braces will provide support for the knee and keep it in a position that does not cause pain. Depending on the nature of your knee pain, our orthopedist may recommend a brace.

Here at Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation, we use cutting-edge technology to provide our patients with top-quality care. When it comes to patellofemoral pain syndrome and other knee problems, our orthopedist in Wantagh can help you understand what treatment option is best for you.

You can schedule an appointment with our orthopedist in Wantagh here.