At Strive Physiotherapy & Performance in Kitchener, we offer effective treatment for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), or runner’s knee. Our expert team tailors care plans to reduce pain, improve knee function, and restore your activity level comfortably.

Understanding Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a prevalent condition affecting the knee, causing pain and discomfort around the kneecap (patella). It primarily affects individuals engaging in activities with significant knee bending like running, squatting, and jumping, but it can impact anyone.

Symptoms That Signal PFPS

PFPS symptoms can vary but typically include:

  • Pain in the front of the knee, around or behind the kneecap, especially when sitting with bent knees, squatting, jumping, or using stairs.
  • A sensation of grinding or popping when bending or extending the knee.
  • Swelling around the kneecap may occasionally occur, exacerbating the discomfort.

Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early intervention, which can significantly improve outcomes and prevent progression to more severe knee issues.

Contributing Factors to PFPS

Several factors contribute to the development of PFPS, including:

  • Muscular Imbalances or Weakness: Discrepancies in strength between the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles can lead to improper tracking of the patella on the femur.
  • Overuse: Repeated stress on the knee joint from high-impact activities can strain the patella and surrounding tissues.
  • Biomechanical Issues: Poor alignment of the legs and feet can increase pressure on the knee joint, contributing to PFPS.
  • Injury or Trauma: Direct impact to the knee can initiate PFPS symptoms, especially if the muscles around the knee are weak.

Targeted Physiotherapy Treatment for Runner’s Knee

At Strive Physiotherapy & Performance, our initial step is a thorough evaluation of your knee to confirm PFPS and identify any contributing factors. This comprehensive assessment may include a physical exam, as well as a detailed history of your symptoms and activity levels.

Tailored Treatment Plans

Based on our findings, we craft a customized treatment plan focused on:

  • Alleviating Immediate Pain: Strategies may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) for pain management.
  • Correcting Muscular Imbalances: A core component of PFPS treatment involves targeted exercises to strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles, improving knee stability and function.
  • Enhancing Flexibility: Stretching exercises are prescribed to increase the flexibility of the muscles around the knee, reducing tension and pressure on the patella.
  • Improving Biomechanics: Advice on proper footwear to correct any biomechanical issues contributing to PFPS.

Ongoing Support and Education

Our commitment to your recovery extends beyond in-clinic treatment. We provide ongoing support, including home exercise programs and lifestyle modification advice, to ensure you can manage your symptoms and prevent recurrence effectively.

Our Comprehensive Services

Strive Physiotherapy & Performance is proud to offer a comprehensive array of services to support your overall well-being and recovery journey. From injury prevention to performance enhancement, we tailor our services to meet your unique needs and goals.

Choose Strive Physiotherapy & Performance for Comprehensive Care

Choosing Strive Physiotherapy & Performance means trusting a team deeply committed to your health and recovery. Our therapists utilize the latest research-backed techniques in our state-of-the-art facility to not only treat PFPS but also enhance your overall knee health and function.

Get a Head Start on Your Recovery

If patellofemoral pain syndrome is affecting your life in Kitchener, reach out to Strive Physiotherapy & Performance. Let us guide you through a personalized treatment plan, crafted to meet your individual needs, and help you return to the activities you love, free from pain.

Other Knee Conditions We Treat 

  • Quadriceps Tendinitis Treatment
  • Pes Anserinus Tendinitis/Bursitis Treatment
  • Osgood-Schlatter Disease Treatment
  • Baker’s Cyst Treatment
  • Prepatellar Bursitis Treatment (Housemaid’s Knee)
  • Patellar Tendinitis Treatment (Jumper’s Knee)
  • Meniscus Tears Treatment
  • Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment
  • Iliotibial Band Syndrome Treatment (IT Band Syndrome)
  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Treatment (Runner’s Knee)

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Treatment (runner’s Knee) Kitchener FAQs

Can Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Be Cured?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all “cure” for patellofemoral pain syndrome, most individuals can achieve significant relief from their symptoms and return to their preferred activities with the right treatment plan. Treatment typically focuses on reducing immediate pain and swelling, followed by exercises to strengthen and balance the muscles around the knee. This approach helps to alleviate pressure on the patella, preventing future episodes of pain. With commitment to a personalized physiotherapy program, most people see a substantial improvement in their symptoms and overall knee function.

What Are the Best Exercises for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

The best exercises for managing patellofemoral pain syndrome are those that strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip abductors, and gluteal muscles without causing additional stress to the knee joint. Examples include straight-leg raises, clamshells, and seated leg presses, which target muscle groups supporting the knee. It’s also beneficial to include exercises that improve flexibility and balance, such as stretching and proprioceptive exercises. A physiotherapist will tailor an exercise program to your specific needs, ensuring that you engage in activities that support recovery without exacerbating your condition.

How Can I Prevent Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome From Recurring?

Preventing recurrence of patellofemoral pain syndrome involves maintaining a healthy balance of strength, flexibility, and stability in the muscles around the knee. Consistently performing exercises that strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and core, along with flexibility exercises for the lower body, can help. It’s also important to pay attention to proper form during physical activities, avoid overloading the knee with excessive high-impact exercises, and wear appropriate footwear. Regular check-ups with a physiotherapist can help catch any imbalances early and adjust your exercise regimen to keep your knees healthy.

How Long Before I Can Return to My Regular Sports or Activities?

The timeline for returning to sports or regular activities after being treated for runner’s knee varies widely among individuals and depends on the severity of their condition and how well they respond to treatment. Generally, a gradual return to activity is recommended, starting with low-impact exercises and slowly increasing intensity under the guidance of a physiotherapist. It’s crucial to avoid rushing this process, as returning to full activity too soon can risk re-injury. People typically begin to see improvement within a few weeks of consistent treatment, but full recovery may take several months.

Can Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Affect Both Knees?

Yes, Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome can affect both knees, though it’s not uncommon for symptoms to be more pronounced in one knee than the other. This bilateral involvement is especially likely in individuals whose activities or biomechanical issues place similar stress on both knees. Treatment and rehabilitation strategies should consider the condition of both knees, even if one seems less affected, to ensure balanced strength and mobility and prevent the less affected knee from deteriorating due to compensatory movements.

Strive Physiotherapy & Performance
260 Doon S Dr Unit 8, Kitchener, ON N2P 2L8, Canada
(519) 895-2020

Hours:

Monday to Thursday: 8 AM – 9 PM
Friday: 8 AM – 5 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed