Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): Why Your Knee Hurts Around the Kneecap

What Is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?
PFPS involves irritation of the cartilage under the kneecap, causing pain especially with bending, squatting, or stairs.

Causes:

• Muscle imbalances or weakness (especially in the quads and hips)

• Overuse or repetitive knee bending

• Poor knee alignment or tracking

• Sudden increase in activity

Symptoms:

• Dull, aching pain around or behind the kneecap

• Pain with squatting, stairs, or prolonged sitting

• Clicking or grinding sensation

• Swelling (sometimes)

Physiotherapy Treatment:
✅ Strengthening exercises for quads, hips, and core
✅ Patellar taping and mobilisation
✅ Movement retraining and gait correction
✅ Advice on activity modification and load management

Long-Term Recovery:
PFPS responds well to targeted physiotherapy focused on muscle balance and joint mechanics, reducing pain and preventing recurrence.