Header

Patellofemoral Syndrome

Patellofemoral syndrome, also known as chondromalacia patella, is a painful knee condition caused by a degeneration of the cartilage in the kneecap, which may be caused by overuse, injury, obesity or malalignment of the kneecap. While this condition can affect anyone, it is most common in athletes and people who put heavy stress on their knees.

Symptoms of Patellofemoral Syndrome

Individuals with patellofemoral syndrome experience knee pain that gets worse when the knee is bent, during activities that may include:

  • Kneeling
  • Walking up or down stairs
  • Squatting
  • Sitting
  • Jumping

Some individuals also experience a buckling or popping sensation within the knee, as well as feelings of tightness or fullness.

Diagnosis of Patellofemoral Syndrome

Patellofemoral syndrome is diagnosed through a physical examination of the knee and leg. Imaging tests may include X-rays, MRI scans or CT scans to visualize the tissue within the knee and rule out structural damage as the cause of pain.

Treatment of Patellofemoral Syndrome

While patellofemoral syndrome may be a chronic condition, there are several basic treatment options available to relieve symptoms, most of which focus on avoiding activities that may cause pain. Additional treatment may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory pain medications
  • Rest
  • Icing the affecting area
  • Supportive braces
  • Physical Therapy

Customized physical therapy exercises, including stretching of the hip, knee, and ankle to improve flexibility and relieve tightness, may also be effective for treating patellofemoral syndrome. Strengthening of the quadriceps and hamstrings is also important to ensure muscle balance about the knee joint. Weakness and stiffness are two common causes of patellofemoral syndrome that is amenable to rehabilitation.

More Information

Biceps Strain Or Something More?

Pain in your biceps makes it challenging to go about your life. Persistent discomfort can leave you wondering if there is a deeper issue. If you’re wondering if the pain in your biceps is something to worry about, here are a few things to look for as you prepare for a trip to the doctor.

Characteristics of a Bicep Strain

A bicep strain can present itself in several ways, and all may come with varying degrees of pain. Bicep strains typically start in the upper arm, close to the shoulder, and often accompany a popping sound. The pain can be sudden and intense and described as a “burst of pain.”

Other signs of a bicep strain include

  • Weakness in the shoulder
  • Inability to rotate the arm
  • Bruising

Risk Factors for Bicep Strains

Activities or sports with repetitive arm motions, such as baseball, football, or tennis, can increase your risk of straining a bicep. 

Poor circulation, previous injuries, and lack of stretching before activities can also put you at risk.

Bicep Strain Treatment and Recovery

After an exam, your doctor can help determine a treatment plan to address your symptoms. Common treatments for bicep strains include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory pain medications, or steroid injections. 

Most bicep strain cases resolve after two weeks, and you may be relegated to modified activity levels as you recover.

Is My Bicep Torn?

A bicep tear works slightly differently than a strain as the injury is more severe. A torn bicep can occur from lifting heavy objects, overuse, repetitive motions, or previous injury. 

Many patients can recognize a torn bicep from a tearing sensation in the arm at the time of the injury.

Bicep Tear Diagnosis and Treatment

Your doctor can determine if you have torn your biceps through a physical exam and tests such as an MRI. 

Conservative methods, including rest, ice, and physical therapy, can help. Extensive injuries to the bicep may require surgery to correct the issue. 

Your recovery depends on your injury’s nature and how well your body responds to treatment methods. If you’ve sustained an injury to your arm, don’t wait. Dr. Desio can help you get back to living your life to the fullest. Call 508-363-6363 to schedule an appointment in the Worcester office.