Patellafemoral pain syndrome refers to pain at the front of the knee, in and around the patella (knee cap). The pain is usually accompanied by tenderness along the edges of the patella. Current research suggests that patellafemoral syndrome is an overuse syndrome, which means that it may result from repetitive or excessive use of the knee. Other contributing factors may include: Weakness, tightness or stiffness in the muscles around the knee and hip and an abnormality in the way the lower leg lines up with the hip, knee and foot. These conditions can interfere with patella tracking, the ability of the patella to glide smoothly on the femur (thigh bone) with movement. The friction between the under surface of the patella and the femur causes the pain and irritation commonly seen in patellafemoral syndrome. Patellafemoral syndrome is common in those who are physically active or who have suddenly increased their activity level such as running, climbing stairs, squatting or repeated carrying of heavy loads. If you are older, you may have age related changes that cause the cartilage on the under surface of the patellar to wear out. Patellafemoral pain leads to diffuse pain in the front of the knee, behind the knee cap or in the back of the knee, pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, arising from a seated position, going up or down stairs or hills, kneeling, squatting or wearing shoes with heals.
The Physical Therapists at Apple Physical Therapy will design a personalized treatment plan specific to you and your injury that will include range of motion, stretching and strengthening exercises to improve mobility and strength in your hip, knee, leg and core musculature to allow you to return to normal daily activity. We will include manual therapy techniques such as massage and stretching of the knee and surrounding muscles to restore normal motion of the knee and leg and to facilitate healing. If necessary, your PT may elect to use modalities such as ice and/or heat to decrease swelling, pain and ready the body for exercise.
With convenient locations in both Cherry Hill NJ and Marlton NJ, Apple Physical Therapy proudly serves such areas as Cherry Hill, Marlton, Medford, Voorhees, Mount Laurel, Maple Shade, Berlin, Moorestown and all of South Jersey’s Camden and Burlington counties. If you are looking for a Physical Therapist in the Cherry Hill area, we welcome you to our practice. Meet our team and schedule your appointment with us today!