Runner's knee -Patello-femoral syndrome (PFPS)

What is patella- femoral pain syndrome?

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) or runner’s knee is an umbrella term used for front knee pain arising from the knee joint itself, or adjacent soft tissues, especially when you move or bend it. It commonly happens when the kneecap doesn't move smoothly in the groove of the thigh bone, causing irritation and discomfort.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is characterized by pain in the front of the knee. The pain is often described as aching, sharp, or a dull discomfort. It is typically felt around or behind the kneecap. You may notice the pain when you walk, run, climb stairs, sit for long periods, or engage in activities that involve bending or straightening the knee.

The pain can vary in intensity, ranging from mild to moderate. It may come and go or persist over time. Some individuals may also experience a cracking or popping sensation in the knee when moving.

During physical examination, your chiropractor may find tenderness when pressing on the edges of the kneecap. They may ask you to perform specific movements or exercises to assess the pain and how it affects your knee function.

It's important to note that the pain of runner’s knee can be influenced by various factors such as muscle imbalances, overuse, poor knee mechanics, or previous injuries. Identifying and addressing these factors are crucial for effective treatment and management of runner’s knee.

• Overuse or repetitive activities involving the knee
• Muscle imbalances or weakness, especially in the quadriceps or hip muscles
• Previous knee injuries or trauma
• Flat feet or high arches
• Sedentary lifestyle or sudden increase in physical activity level without proper conditioning

• Chiropractors are able to assess the alignment and function of the leg
• The adjustment can realign knee joint and reduce any abnormal stress of the muscle and finding the causes of muscle imbalance that leads to runner’s knee
• Chiropractors at Lakeside Chiropractic are also able to provide proper exercises and stretches guidance to strengthen the muscle and improve knee stability
• Remedial Massage or myofascial release will help to reduce muscle tension and improve flexibility
• Provides suggestion on lifestyle or activity modification in order to reduce stress on joints during daily activities

• Laser therapy and electrotherapy: relieves knee pain, as well as improves sensitivity to pressure and joint flexibility.
• Dry needling and soft tissue mobilisation.
• Exercise therapy such as squats, deadlifts, lunges, power cleans, and leg presses.
• Quadriceps strengthening such as isometric exercises, proprioceptive knee training. 
• Muscle strengthening on core muscles such as clamshells and side bridges exercises.
• Patellar Taping: aligning the knee cap and supporting the patella tendons.

If you're suffering from runner’s knee, Lakeside chiropractic clinic are here for you. We are located in Joondalup, Central Walk. Our chiropractors can provide a holistic approach to managing runner’s knee by addressing the underlying causes of the condition and providing effective treatment options.

In addition to these treatment options, our chiropractors in Joondalup Lakeside Chiropractic can also provide rehabilitation exercises, education on proper footwear and training techniques, and advice on other lifestyle factors that can help prevent runner’s knee from recurring. Lakeside chiropractic located in Joondalup may manage the pain and discomfort of runner’s knee, and improve your overall quality of life. Book online at www.lakesidechiro.com.au or by calling our friendly reception team on 9300 0095.