Patellofemoral Pain
Patellofemoral pain is when there is pain in the soft tissue of the knee and around the patella (kneecap).
What is Patellofemoral Pain?
- Patellofemoral pain is when there is pain in the soft tissue of the knee and around the patella (kneecap).
- The soft tissue in the knee may include the tendons, the fat pad under the patella, and the synovial tissue that lines the knee joint.
What Causes Patellofemoral Pain?
- Usually caused by repetitive stress on the knee (such as squatting, stairs, and running).
- Changes in footwear or playing surfaces may also cause patellofemoral pain.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Pain in the front of the knee with movement or activity over the affected site.
- Localized swelling.
- Your knee may feel like it is catching and popping.
- You may hear noises such as a creaking in your knee during activity.
What Can I Do to Feel Better?
- Rest. Do not do things that cause pain.
- Ice for 15-20 minutes at a time will help decrease swelling and pain.
- Compression can be helpful to decrease swelling and pain.
- Elevating your knee so that it is above your heart can also be helpful for swelling.
When Should I See a Medical Professional?
- If rest, ice, and compression are not improving the condition.
- If you are uncertain about the severity of the condition.