What is patellofemoral syndrome and how can Osteopaths help?

What is patellofemoral syndrome?

This syndrome, also known as ‘runner’s knee’ or ‘cyclist’s knee’ is an umbrella term to describe knee pain located to any side of the knee cap (patellar), in the absence of other pathologies. PFS is often considered an overuse injury whereby the pain develops gradually without swelling, is aggravated by activity and relieved by rest. Specific activities such as climbing up or down stairs, squatting and prolonged sitting are most aggravating to the patient with PFS.

Who is affected?

As an overuse injury, the onset of PFS often occurs following a sharp increase in training volume, or related to poor footwear or deficits in running/cycling/walking technique and biomechanics.

What else could it be?

Osteopathic examination will consider other pathologies before arriving at this diagnosis. Assessment for injury to the ligaments of the knee including the ACL, PCL, LCL, MCL as well as the meniscus are a primary considerations. Other conditions are also common such as Chondromalacia patellar, Osgood-Schlatter Disease, Bursitis and Stress fractures.

How can osteopaths help?

The first priority of the osteopath is to reduce pain. Treatment involving mobilisation of the knee joints in combination with rest from aggravating activities is required. Taping of the patellar is often used. Treatment of shortened and contracted muscles around the knee joint help to improve the tracking of the patellar and techniques may include massage, dry needling, articulation and myofascial release.

Recommendations regarding strengthening to the proximal muscles of the knee including the quadriceps, gluteals and trunk may be appropriate depending on individual patient biomechanics. Referral to a podiatrist may be required for some patients to assist in prevention of this injury.

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This post was written by Dr Jessica Davies.

You can read more about Jess here or book an appointment with her here.

Alternatively, you can call us at the clinic on 03 9908 2844.

 

References

• Brukner, P., Bahr, Blair, Cook, Crossley, McConnell, McCory, Noakes, Khan. (Eds.). (2012). Brukner & Khan’s Clinical Sports Medicine (4^th). NSW, Australia, McGraw-Hill Education (Australia) Pty Ltd.
• Potter P. J., Sequeira, K. A. (2017). Patellofemoral Syndrome. Retrieved from http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/308471-overview
• Murtagh, J., Rosenblatt, J. (2015). John Murtagh’s General Practice (6^th). NSW, Australia, McGraw-Hill Education (Australia) Pty Ltd.