Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a prevalent cause of anterior knee pain in adolescents and adults under 60.
• The condition affects 3-6% of the US population, characterized by pain during knee flexion under load.
• Symptoms are exacerbated by prolonged sitting and descending stairs, with squatting often eliciting the most pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of patellofemoral pain syndrome.
• To highlight key diagnostic findings and differentiate PFPS from other knee pathologies.
• To outline current evidence-based treatment strategies for PFPS.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical presentation and physical examination findings.
• Discussion of diagnostic imaging utility and limitations.
• Summary of conservative and surgical treatment options.

Main Results:

• PFPS is diagnosed based on characteristic anterior knee pain aggravated by specific activities.
• Physical examination, including gait and posture assessment, aids in identifying contributing factors.
• Plain radiographs are typically not required for diagnosis but can rule out other conditions.

Conclusions:

• Conservative management, including rest, NSAIDs, and targeted physical therapy, is the primary treatment for PFPS.
• Strengthening of hip flexor, trunk, and knee muscles is crucial for rehabilitation.
• Surgery is reserved as a last resort for refractory cases.