Treatment for patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) has traditionally relied on quadriceps strength training. Some patients also benefit from neuromuscular training, which focuses more on motor control than improving strength.

So far no one has found a “one size fits all” kind of program. Some people seem to get better with one type of exercise while others have less pain and more function with other types of training.

Some time ago researchers saw that hip strength may be an important key to PFPS. One by one studies have been done to confirm this suspicion. Most recently physical therapists at the Nicholas Institute of Sports and Medicine and Athletic Trauma in New York City studied hip strength and flexibility as it relates to PFPS.

They found that 60 percent of patients with PFPS got better after a six-week training program. Exercises to improve hip flexor strength and flexibility resulted in decreased pain and improved function.

The goal was to prevent inward rotation of the thighbone (femoral rotation). Maintaining good alignment of the patella as it moves up and down over the knee reduces the tension on the soft tissues around the knee. This new treatment approach may help you as well!

For more information on this subject, call The Zehr Center for Orthopaedics at 239-596-0100 or visit www.zehrcenter.com. The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of a visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.

Taping the kneecap in place is often suggested as a treatment method for patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). This helps keep the kneecap (patella) in good alignment as it moves up and down.

Many studies have been done to see if taping works for PFPS. Some show no effect while many others say taping reduces pain right away. Still other research shows taping works no matter how it’s applied.

This last finding suggests it’s not the position of the patella (knee cap) that makes a difference. Perhaps the taping improves the patellofemoral joint position sense called proprioception. Or maybe it helps the muscle contract more fully pulling the kneecap back into proper alignment.

If taping doesn’t work, there are other treatment choices that can be tried.

For more information on this subject, call The Zehr Center for Orthopaedics at 239-596-0100 or visit www.zehrcenter.com.The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.

You may be having symptoms of a problem called patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). PFPS can occur when the kneecap rubs against the femur (thigh bone) as it moves up and down with knee motion.

Sometimes the patella, or kneecap, gets out of the groove it normally glides in. Abnormal positioning of the patella leads to inflammation and pain. This problem can get started by muscle imbalance, inflexibility, changes in the bones, improper walking pattern, overuse, or trauma.

There are many ways to treat PFPS. Consult with a physical therapist or orthopedic surgeon for a proper diagnosis. The best treatment plan depends on the exact cause of the symptoms.

For more information on this subject, call The Zehr Center for Orthopaedics at 239-596-0100 or visit www.zehrcenter.com.The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.

  There are several possible causes of pain behind the knee. A recent injury can cause pain from a ligament tear. Sometimes a small structure in the knee such as a bursa or plica can become inflamed and cause pain.

You may be describing a condition called patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). This occurs when the kneecap is slightly off center as it slides up and down over the joint. This kind of tracking misalignment can cause the cartilage behind the knee to become torn or frayed.

PFPS is often characterized by pain when descending stairs. There may also be pain when trying to bend at the knee in a partial squat. An orthopedic physician or physical therapist can examine you and determine the cause of your symptoms.

The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic. For more information on this subject, visit www.zehrcenter.com. ]]> http://www.naplesorthopedicsurgeon.com/could-my-knee-pain-be-arthritis-im-only-33/feed/ 0