The most common cause of knee pain for individuals under the age of 40, patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) develops due to excessive stress placed on your legs—particularly during exercise. Also commonly referred to as “runner’s knee,” PFPS causes pain in the area of your leg where your kneecap (patella) connects to your femur (thigh bone). Lacking proper treatment, PFPS could get worse over time. Speak with a Bayhealth expert about PFPS.
Signs and Symptoms
While exact symptoms of PFPS—and how mild or severe they are—depend on how the condition developed, patients commonly experience a dull or aching pain while kneeling, squatting or walking up and down stairs. Sitting with bent knees can also be painful.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Factors known to increase the risk of developing PFPS include the following.
- Age: While many joint issues don’t develop until old age, PFPS typically affects individuals under the age of 40, including teens.
- Gender: Women are twice as likely to develop PFPS compared to men.
- Injury: Any trauma to the kneecap, such as a fracture or dislocation, could lead to PFPS.
- Overuse: Individuals who frequently exercise are at greater risk of developing PFPS due to stress placed on the knees.
- Surgery: Past procedures, such as knee surgery to repair the anterior cruciate ligament, could result in PFPS later in life.
Help prevent PFPS by building strength in your legs and moving with intention during exercises and athletics. Wear supportive shoes, maintain good form and stretch often.
How We Diagnose PFPS
Our orthopedic experts use the following procedures to diagnose PFPS.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A combination of a magnetic field and radio waves creates three-dimensional images of specific areas of your body.
- Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan: Certified experts use computer-processed X-rays to generate a scan of your body in “slices” to create highly accurate images.
- X-ray: A common medical imaging procedure, X-rays use radiation to capture colorless images of your bones, joints and soft tissue.
Treatment Options
Most cases of PFPS can be managed with conservative treatment methods, such as icing the affected area and using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Some cases may require physical therapy, corticosteroids or strength training to ensure the condition doesn’t progress. Only in rare instances does PFPS require surgical treatment. Learn more about orthopedic conditions treated at Bayhealth, or speak with one of our experts.