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Clinical classification of patellofemoral pain and dysfunction
1American Sports Medicine Institute, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA.
The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy
|November 11, 1998
Summary
Understanding patellofemoral joint disorders is crucial for effective treatment. This review clarifies classification systems for patellofemoral pain and instability, aiding diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- The patellofemoral joint's stability relies on dynamic and static restraints.
- Patellofemoral disorder classification has historically faced confusion.
- Improved biomechanical understanding and terminology clarification are advancing the field.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing patellofemoral classification systems.
- To propose a clinical classification framework for patellofemoral disorders.
- To facilitate diagnosis, treatment, and comparative research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of patellofemoral classification systems.
- Analysis of biomechanics and terminology in patellofemoral pathology.
- Development of a clinical classification based on three primary categories.
Main Results:
- Chondromalacia patella is now specifically defined as articular cartilage lesions.
- Patellofemoral problems in adults are categorized into instability, pain with malalignment, and pain without malalignment.
- A hierarchical classification aids in developing treatment algorithms.
Conclusions:
- A clear classification system is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment of patellofemoral disorders.
- The proposed three-category system offers a simple, clinically useful framework.
- Standardized classification can improve the comparability of treatment outcomes.
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