Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Overcoming Knee Pain That Holds You Back
What is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common causes of knee pain, especially in athletes and active individuals. It’s caused by irritation or inflammation around the kneecap, often due to abnormal tracking of the patella over the femur. This condition can interfere with your daily activities, particularly those involving movement or exercise.
Symptoms of PFPS
- Pain around or behind the kneecap, especially during activities like running or squatting
- A feeling of instability in the knee joint
- Pain after sitting for long periods or standing for too long
- Swelling or tenderness in the knee area
What Causes Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?
There are several possible causes of PFPS, including:
- Repetitive Stress: Engaging in activities that require constant knee motion, such as running or jumping, can irritate the knee joint.
- Poor Alignment: Misalignments in the hips, knees, or feet can cause improper tracking of the patella, leading to PFPS.
- Weak Muscles: Weak quadriceps, hamstrings, or hip muscles can fail to stabilize the knee, contributing to PFPS.
- Previous Injury: A prior knee injury can increase the risk of developing PFPS.
Potentially Serious Conditions Associated with Knee Pain
Although PFPS is not usually life-threatening, it can lead to more severe issues, such as:
- Patellar Dislocation: The kneecap can slip out of its normal position, leading to significant pain and instability.
- Osteoarthritis: The cartilage in the knee joint may break down over time, causing chronic pain.
- Tendon Injuries: Tears or inflammation in the tendons can exacerbate knee pain and may require surgical intervention.
Why Imaging Matters
Without proper imaging, diagnosing PFPS can be difficult. X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds can help rule out other conditions and ensure the right treatment is applied. Without clear imaging, treatments can be ineffective, leading to continued pain and frustration.
How We Can Help
At The Pain Relief Clinic, we provide quick, cost-effective imaging services to accurately diagnose the cause of your knee pain in under one working day. If your current treatment isn’t working, we offer a $50 second opinion consultation to find a better solution.
Why Choose Us?
- Non-invasive, targeted treatments for knee pain relief
- Fast, affordable imaging for clear diagnosis
- Medisave and insurance coverage to ease your financial burden
Visit Us If You Are:
- Fed up with treatments that haven’t worked
- Looking for a faster diagnosis with imaging
- Considering a second opinion before opting for surgery