Patellofemoral pain syndrome is characterized by discomfort at the front of the knee, near the kneecap (patella). It is more frequent in those who participate in activities that entail running and leaping and is sometimes referred to as "runner's knee."
The most typical symptom is knee discomfort, which worsens after stair climbing or squatting.
Many factors may play a role in the formation of PFPS. Overuse from strenuous activities or training, as well as problems with kneecap alignment, are usually important contributors.
Causes
Overuse. Running or leaping activities place repetitive strain on the knee joint, which can irritate the kneecap.
Weaknesses or imbalances in the muscles Patellofemoral discomfort occurs when the muscles that surround your hip and knee fail to keep your kneecap properly positioned. Patellofemoral discomfort relates to inward knee movement during a squat.
Injury. Patellofemoral pain syndrome has been associated with kneecap trauma, such as dislocation or fracture.
Surgery. Knee surgery, particularly restoration of the anterior cruciate ligament with your patellar tendon as a graft, raises the risk of patellofemoral discomfort.
Risk factors
Age is one factor that might raise your risk. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is most common in teenagers and young adults. Arthritis is the most prevalent cause of knee issues in the elderly.
Sex. Patellofemoral pain affects women twice as much as men. This might be due to a woman's larger pelvis, which increases the angle at which the bones of the knee joint contact.
Specific sports. Running and leaping sports can place additional strain on your knees, especially if you raise your training level.
Signs and Symptoms
A dull, agonizing ache in the front of the afflicted knee is common in many persons. You may also experience the following symptoms:
Pain when doing knee-bending exercises such as squatting or climbing stairs
Pain after sitting with your knees bent for a lengthy amount of time
When standing up or ascending stairs, you may hear crackling or popping sounds in your knee.
Pain that worsens when your normal playing surface, sports equipment, or activity intensity varies
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