Non-invasive Treatment Options for Patellofemoral Pain

Non-invasive Treatment Options for Patellofemoral Pain

Patellofemoral pain syndrome, which is pain that occurs at the front of the knee (around the knee cap/patella), can be effectively treated with non-surgical modalities.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a term used to describe pain that occurs at the front of the knee, around the kneecap (patella). Also called “runner knee�, this condition is more common among people who participate in sports, such as runners, cyclists and hikers. It can occur in non-athletes as well. The severe pain and stiffness associated with this condition makes it difficult to climb stairs, keel down or squat, sit for long periods and perform day-to-day activities. Pain management specialists in reputable healthcare centers in Brooklyn, NYC use proven non-surgical treatment modalities to help patients manage the chronic pain associated with PFPS and restore strength.

Causes and Symptoms In most cases, this pain syndrome is the result of rigorous physical activity (such as jogging, squatting, and climbing stairs), which put extra stress on the knee. It can also be caused by an immediate change in physical activity, like frequency of activity and duration or intensity of activity. Use of improper sports training techniques or equipment, muscle imbalances or weaknesses and changes in footwear or playing surface can also contribute to the condition.

Generally, patellofemoral pain is a dull or aching pain in the front of the knee. In most cases, the pain begins gradually, is activity–related, and can occur in one or both knees. Other common symptoms include Pain in knee or knees with weight bearing activities Muscle weakness in legs or hips Tenderness in and around the front of the knee (when extra pressure is applied) Cracking/clicking with knee movement Popping or crackling sounds with knee movement (while climbing stairs or when standing up after prolonged sitting) Pain after sitting for a long period of time with knees bent Diagnosis and Treatment In a reliable pain management center, an expert team comprising pain management doctors, orthopedists, and physical therapists will work as a team to diagnose the condition effectively. As part of the initial diagnosis, physicians will ask about your history of knee problems in detail and examine or press different areas of knee. Your legs will be moved in a variety of positions to assess strength and function. This will also help rule out other conditions that have similar signs and symptoms. In order to determine the root cause of knee pain, physicians may recommend imaging tests such as X-ray, CT and knee MRI scan. A diagnostic imaging test helps rule out the possibilities of other conditions such as knee arthritis or joint dislocation.

In multispecialty healthcare centers, othropedists work with sports medicine specialists and other healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat patellofemoral pain syndrome. A variety of modalities such as physical therapy, medications, chiropractic care may be employed.

You will be advised to rest your knee as much as possible and try to avoid or modify activities that increase the pain such as climbing stairs, kneeling or squatting. Physical therapy exercises can strengthen the muscles and improve pain and range of movement. These exercises include strengthening, stretching and range-of-motion exercises. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) involves administration of low-voltage electric simulation to the affected part to manage pain. NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen help reduce pain and swelling. Chiropractic treatment can reduce pain and inflammation and strengthen the muscles around the knee joint. Wrapping the injured or sore area with an elastic bandage or brace will also help decrease swelling and pain.

Surgery will be recommended only as a last resort, when these non-surgical treatment methods fail to provide relief.

Tips to Prevent Patellofemoral Pain

Here are a few tips for preventing this painful knee condition –  If you are overweight, losing the excess pounds will help relieve stress on your knees.  Warm up thoroughly before physical activity.  Promote flexibility with gentle stretching exercises.  Reduce activities that has hurt your knees in the past.  Wear shoes that fit well and provide good shock absorption, appropriate to your activities.  Avoid sudden changes in the intensity of your workouts.