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

My Shoulders Are Letting Me Down

We rely on our shoulders for countless tasks. It can be problematic when they don’t function at our best and can make ordinary tasks a challenge. Finding a cause behind unstable shoulders can help bring pain relief and peace of mind. Here are some reasons behind your shoulder pain and what you can do to treat it.

What Causes Shoulder Instability?

Your shoulders play a pivotal role in how you go about your daily life. Unstable shoulders can frequently come out of place, making everyday activities difficult. 

One cause of shoulder instability is severe trauma to the shoulder. An injury such as a dislocation causes the head of your shoulder to dislocate from the socket. The initial shoulder dislocation can result in repeated dislocations and further instability.

Genetics may be another cause of shoulder instability. Some people are born with naturally loose shoulder ligaments. Excessively loose shoulder ligaments called Hyperlaxity can cause shoulder instability. This can occur without prior dislocations or a history of strains. Hyperlaxity can increase the chances of dislocating your shoulder or weakening the joint.

Symptoms of Shoulder Instability

Several symptoms characterize shoulder instability. Shoulder instability symptoms include

  • A loose feeling in the shoulder
  • The shoulder giving out
  • Repeated shoulder dislocations
  • Pain

How is Shoulder Instability Diagnosed?

Professional examination is how shoulder instability is diagnosed. 

If you’re having shoulder trouble, your doctor can order imaging tests to find the cause. One tool to find the cause of your shoulder pain is an x-ray. The x-ray helps doctors to take a thorough look at the bones around your shoulder joint and examine them for signs of injury. Your doctor may also order an MRI for further examination. An MRI provides a detailed image of the tissues around your shoulder and helps find damage to the ligaments and tendons in the joint.

How Are Unstable Shoulders Treated?

Your treatment plan depends on the nature and severity of your symptoms. First, you may need to avoid activities that worsen your symptoms. If you can’t stay away from pain-inducing activities, modifying your movements may help give you some relief. Also, anti-inflammatory pain medications and physical therapy can help.

If your shoulder problems need more aggressive treatment, our office can help. Schedule a consultation by calling (508) 363-6363.