Patellofemoral pain syndrome

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Patellofemoral pain syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a condition that causes pain in the front of the knee. It may be caused by overuse, injury, excess weight, an improperly aligned kneecap, or changes under the kneecap.

Symptoms include:

Pain, especially when sitting with bent knees, squatting, jumping, or climbing stairs.
Occasional knee buckling, where the knee suddenly and unexpectedly gives way and does not support body weight.
A catching, popping, or grinding sensation with walking or moving the knee.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome most commonly occurs in teenagers, manual laborers, and athletes. It can be relieved by avoiding activities that make symptoms worse, such as sitting, kneeling, or doing exercises in the bent-knee position.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome can be relieved by taking nonprescription anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and by resting and icing the knee. Physical therapy can help balance the strength in the leg muscles. Taping the knee or using a brace may stabilize the kneecap. Surgery may be needed if pain is persistent.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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