May 22, 2012
Diet & Fitness Exercise What is Patellofemoral Syndrome
What is Patellofemoral Syndrome |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I was Just wondering if you could explain what retopella pain syndrome is and can it be cured if so how? because i have just been told i may have it in my knees. Dear Samantha: Knee pain is the most common presentation of patellofemoral syndrome in young and active people. The pain typically is located behind the kneecap and often shows during activities that require knee flexion and forceful contraction of the quadriceps (e.i, during squats, ascending/descending stairs or pendants). Pain may be worsen by sitting with the knee flexed for a long period of time, such as while watching a movie, hence leading to the terms "theatre sign" and "movie-goer's knee." The causes are diverse: Overuse (repetitive use or activity), overloading, and misuse of the patellofemoral joint. The suggested strategy for conservative treatment should be as follows: Physical therapy program (exercises and pain control with TENS, ultrasound, ice packs after exercises), anti-inflammatory drugs (i.e.: “Aleve”, “Advil”), education of the patient so he/she understands which activities avoid because those can aggravate patellofemoral syndrome. Also, and very important, is to remark the need for extended adherence to the exercise regimen. The patient's physical therapist should educate the patient about a home exercise program Allow time for these conservative measures (ei: exercise program) to have an effect in patients with patellofemoral syndrome, usually 4-6 weeks is adequate for some resolution of symptoms. |
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| Last Updated ( Saturday, 20 March 2010 ) |
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