Patellofemoral pain syndrome & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is patellofemoral pain syndrome?

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (knee cap pain syndrome) is pain in the lower part of or around the patellae due to changes in the patellofemoral joint - femora. The patella is the small piece of bone located in the knee, before the knee joint. The role of the patellae is to support the leg to move and stand by reducing the pressure on the knee joint and the cartilage that wraps the bones in the joint. Patellofemoral pain can affect one or both knees. Some sports such as football, basketball, tennis, or marathons can exacerbate knee problems. Running on a rough surface or exercising on a different surface can cause this disease.

You need to differentiate between patellofemoral pain and patellar tendinitis because they have almost the same symptoms.

How common is patellofemoral pain syndrome?

This disease can affect people of all ages. However, it usually occurs in athletes who play sports such as football, basketball and tennis. This can be overcome by reducing risk factors. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of patellofemoral pain syndrome?

Patellofemoral pain usually causes mild but persistent pain in the knee as the muscles continue to stretch, the pain may worsen if the knee is compressed. For example, going up and down stairs, running, or in certain standing positions (in Kung Fu). When the knee is bent for a long time, for example sitting while watching a movie or being on a train, it can cause pain.

Your knees can hurt if you walk on a rough or uneven surface; as if he felt caught on his knees. Discomfort, cracking sounds, or pain may occur.

Patellofemoral pain and patellar tendinitis are almost the same. However, patellar tendinitis does not cause pain on either side or directly in the knee, pain usually arises from within the joint. Patellofemoral pain occurs in all areas of the joint.

There may be other symptoms that are not listed. If you have questions about signs of illness, consult a doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

If it is during treatment, notify the doctor if the pain does not go away within a few days. Your doctor may suggest a more potent treatment. In addition, contact your doctor if:

• Stubborn pain.
• Pain affects daily activities.
• Swelling or redness in the joints.

Cause

What causes patellofemoral pain syndrome?

The exact cause is unclear, however, doctors think the main cause is a hard impact on the knee joint, compressed cartilage and ligaments which can lead to pain and degeneration. Collisions may be caused by:

• Excessive moves muscles and joints.
• Injury, including shifting or fracturing, can also cause patellofemoral pain.

Another reason may be due to congenital anomalies in the patellae or knee joint. Patellae that move too close or too far will put pressure on the knee joint as the patient moves. The ability to control muscles in the knee joint is weak, where the muscles function unevenly, which puts pressure on the affected bones and joints. In addition, the abnormal head structure of the knee is also a cause of difficulty walking and knee pain.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for patellofemoral pain syndrome?

There are many risk factors for patellofemoral pain. This disease generally attacks athletes who require leg strength such as running and jumping. You may get this disease if:

• Participate in sports including running and jumping.
• Over stretching the thigh muscles and tendons.
• Imbalance between muscles and thighs.

Not having a risk doesn't mean you can't experience patellofemoral pain. The above risk factors are for reference only. Discuss with a specialist for more details.

Drugs & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for patellofemoral pain syndrome?

Initial treatment is resting, exercising your thigh muscles, and applying ice cubes (especially after exercising for 10-20 minutes). If possible, you should switch to non-impact aerobics such as swimming or elliptic machines. Stretching the muscles of the hips, hamstrings, calves and iliotibial bands can also help.

Wearing a shoe that fits any kind of running shoe with curved cushioning is important. Most runners change their shoes after 300-500 miles. Orthopedic devices, knee protectors and splints are also useful. Surgery is a last resort; took 6 weeks to recover.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce swelling and pain. These medicines can cause stomach upset and can only be taken after a meal. Patients with ulcers or bleeding should be checked by a doctor before taking medication.

Physical therapy can be treated with physical therapy to strengthen the quadriceps and stretch the thigh and hamstring muscles.

In rare cases, surgery is required.

What are the usual tests for patellofemoral pain syndrome?

The doctor will conduct a physical examination by identifying vulnerable positions. In order to come to the right conclusion, the doctor must use the methods:

• X-ray: helps doctors see the position of the bones, but it is difficult to trace the position of the tissue.
• CT scan: helps doctors identify tissue and bone; but exposes patients to more radiation than X-rays.
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat patellofemoral pain syndrome?

The following lifestyle and home remedies may help with patellofemoral pain:

• Take medication as recommended by your doctor.
• Stop activities that cause pain. Start with care.
• Continue physical therapy, which helps restore the knee, hamstring muscles and thighs.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.