Home Products Links Disclaimer E-Mail

PATELLO-FEMORAL SYNDROME. (Knee Pain) Patello-femoral knee pain is simply a term used to describe general knee pain felt between the patella (knee cap) and the femur (thigh bone). This condition can effect anyone at any age but is most commonly seen in adolescent girls. Patello-femoral syndrome is one of the most common causes of knee pain in runners. The pain is usually located in the front part of the knee but may be on the inside, outside or vaguely located. The patient complains of either sharp or dull pain, that is often made worse by sporting activities or simply walking down stairs or getting out of a chair. Also, sometimes there is slight swelling and the knee makes a clicking or grinding noise. There are many predisposing factors that contribute to knee pain, such as: muscle weakness; muscle tightness and excessive walking over rough ground but the main cause of this condition is believed to be due to biomechanical dysfunction. Excessive pronation (the feet become misaligned and combined with poor posture roll inwards to gain ground contact, the arches become flattened) can change the rotation in the lower leg and subsequently alter the tracking position of the patella (knee cap). This will lead to uneven wearing of the cartilage, resulting in pain and inflammation under and about the knee cap. Treatment of this condition initially involves rest, ice therapy, anti-inflammatory medications and taping. Soft tissue therapy and stretching and strengthening exercises will help loosen the tight structures. In conjunction to these treatments, if the lower leg is abnormally rotated, then it is important to treat the associated excessive pronation. Sports control orthotics are the most effective means of treating this condition.     TEL: +44 (0)1294 550099 Monday to Friday 9.30am - 5pm GMT