Patello-Femoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
Patellofemoral Physiotherapy- What You Need to Know
In this blog post, we will be discussing patellofemoral physiotherapy rehabilitation. This type of rehabilitation is designed to help individuals who are dealing with pain in the kneecap area. We will go over what patellofemoral pain syndrome is, the causes, and how physiotherapy can help treat this condition.
What is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a condition that causes discomfort or pain around the kneecap area. The kneecap sits in a groove at the end of the femur (thighbone), and with every movement we make, the kneecap rubs against the femur. When this area becomes irritated and inflamed, it can result in PFPS.
Causes of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
There are a few different things that can contribute to the development of PFPS. Some of these include:
- Muscular imbalances around the hips and thighs
- Overuse from activities such as running, jumping, or squatting
- Poor alignment of the kneecap
- Weakness in the muscles that stabilize the knee joint
- Wearing high heels frequently
- Trauma to the knee area
Physiotherapy for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
If you are suffering from PFPS, physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option. Here are some of the ways physiotherapy can help treat PFPS:
- Developing an Exercise Program: A big part of physiotherapy for PFPS involves developing an exercise program that targets the muscles around the hips, pelvis, and thighs. These exercises help to correct any muscle imbalances and improve strength and flexibility.
- Manual Therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilizations can help reduce inflammation and pain in the knee area.
- education: Your physiotherapist will also provide you with education on things such as proper stretching and strengthening exercises, as well as proper mechanics when performing activities such as squatting or jumping. This education is important in helping to prevent PFPS from recurring in the future.
If you are experiencing kneecap pain, physiotherapy may be an effective treatment option for you. Physiotherapy can help reduce pain and inflammation while also improving strength and flexibility. If you think physiotherapy may be right for you, please contact our office to book an appointment with one of our qualified physiotherapists today!
