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HOMEPAGE |
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| KNEE | SHOULDER | FOOT and ANKLE | BACK and NECK | ELBOW and WRIST | HIP and PELVIS | COMPLETE INDEX |
Diagnosis |
PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN SYNDROME |
| Definition | Pain typically in the front of the knee arising from the joint between the kneecap (Patella) and the thigh
bone (Femur) Picture of Normal Knee Model and X-ray of a Normal Knee |
| Details |
This is a very common problem especially in women. The pain may worsen with stair climbing, knee extension exercises or deep squats. Sitting with your knees flexed for a long period of time in a car or movie theatre may aggravate your symptoms. |
| Causes |
Patellofemoral pain syndrome can be caused by softening of the cartilage under the kneecap (Chondromalacia). A malalignment of the kneecap or tight tissue around the kneecap can also create tension that may lead to patellofemoral pain syndrome. |
| Diagnosis | Patellofemoral pain syndrome is diagnosed via the set of characteristic symptoms outlined above. The physical exam
will reveal painful kneecap movement or tight structures around it. X-rays, CT Scans and or MRI Scans may be used
to confirm the diagnosis. Physical Exam of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome |
| Treatment | Phase I: Control of pain and inflammation REST, Icing, Stretching, Anti-inflammatory medication Phase II: Restore strength and function Phase III: Return to sports or exercise program Evaluate feet for orthotics, consider brace for kneecap If non-operative measures fail, arthroscopic (minimally invasive) surgery may be required to smooth cartilage or release tight structures. More involved kneecap realignment surgery may also be needed if the symptoms are severe. Arthroscopic Surgery--smoothing of the knee cap cartilage |
| Prevention |
Avoid training error such as overuse and knee extension exercises copyright www.emedx.com |
