Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

The patellofemoral joint is a very unique joint composed of the patella, also called the patella, and the trochlea of the femur, a groove or groove into which the patella slides during movement. Several structures support the optimal mechanics of the joint by maintaining an ideal path and proper contact pressure of the surrounding tissues. Patellofemoral syndrome is often used as a generic term to describe a source of pain arising from the patellofemoral joint itself or adjacent tissues. Patients with this syndrome complain of anterior knee pain that is usually aggravated by activities that increase stress on the patellofemoral joint such as descending stairs, squatting, and kneeling. Symptoms may arise as a result of a traumatic event (for example: a fall or impact against an object) or as a result of an overload, a type of injury mechanism in which a repetitive load is placed on the joint, causing it to exceed its current tolerance.

Management

A multitude of factors such as the patient’s anatomy, mobility, strength, muscle imbalances, and quality of movement can impact the load the patellofemoral joint is subjected to during daily and sports activities. The first step in treating patellofemoral syndrome is to receive a proper diagnosis provided by one of our highly trained physicians, who will highlight why this condition has occurred and how to effectively address it. Together with the rehabilitation team, you will be guided through your recovery process using the most appropriate environments for your recovery such as the gym and pool to improve your mobility, the gym to restore your strength and muscle imbalances, the quality of movement and movement training room to improve the way you move, and field rehabilitation to get you back to sport and improve the ability of your joints to accept load.

Surgical procedures

In some cases, after trauma or in the presence of certain specific anatomical abnormalities (potentially associated with recurrent patellar dislocation), some patients may be considered candidates for surgical procedures. The main goal of the surgical procedure is to restore static and dynamic alignment and balance of the patella as it slides in the groove of the femur during movement. Several procedures could be implemented during surgery (such as a lateral release, distal or proximal realignment, etc.) and are always discussed in detail with patients and the medical-surgical team. Importantly, despite the restoration of optimal patellar sliding by surgery, a period of rehabilitation for patellofemoral pain is strongly recommended to ensure optimal long-term results and prevent any relapse and symptoms. The surgical team will provide specific postoperative guidance regarding immobilization, use of crutches, braces, etc., and our medical team will always work with the surgeon to optimize your results.