OVERVIEW

What Is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee)?

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome or anterior knee pain syndrome is a term that refers to pain in the front of the knee and around the patella, or kneecap. It is sometimes called "runner's knee" because it is common in athletes.

Causes of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome occurs when the cartilage under your patella (kneecap), becomes overloaded. Stress on the cartilage can be due to overuse, or as a result of poor alignment.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Risk Factors

High-impact sports such as basketball, soccer, tennis, dancing and running have the potential to aggravate the cartilage.

In addition, running on uneven surfaces, like hills or trails, or playing on multiple surfaces (such as hard and clay courts in tennis) may also increase the likelihood of patellofemoral pain.

SYMPTOMS

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee) Symptoms and Diagnosis

The most common symptom of patellofemoral pain syndrome is a dull ache underneath your kneecap. 

This can occur when walking down stairs, squatting, or getting up after sitting for long periods of time. 

In addition, your knee may catch when bending, and you may experience a painful grating or creaking sensation.

Diagnosing Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Your physician will diagnose the injury by taking a medical history and examining your knee area. 

After a physical exam, your physician will be able to tell whether your discomfort is due to patellofemoral pain syndrome or another knee problem. 

Your physician may request X-rays for a closer look at your knee.

TREATMENT

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee) Treatment

The best way to treat patellofemoral pain syndrome is to rest and avoid activities that cause pain. 

Ice can be used to treat any swelling or pain that may occur.

Your physiotherapist will prescribe stretching and strengthening exercises to facilitate recovery. 

Knee braces can also be used to provide the knee with more support and can help prevent symptoms from worsening.

Preventive Measures

It may not be possible to totally prevent patellofemoral pain syndrome; however, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and avoid making the condition worse.

These measures include:

• A proper warm up before exercising 
• Stretching pre- and post-activity
• Varying the types of activities that you participate in, such as alternating between running, swimming and biking
• Taking care of injuries immediately
• Resting the injured area until it is healed before resuming an activity

 

 

 

Content supplemented by UPMC Sports Medicine