Overview
Diagnosis
To diagnose patellofemoral pain, your healthcare provider will review your medical history, ask about previous knee problems, and examine your knee by pressing on it and moving your leg through various positions.
Imaging tests may be used to help identify the cause of knee pain, including:
• X-rays to view the bones, though they are less effective for soft tissues
• CT scans to show both bones and soft tissues, with a higher radiation dose than X-rays
• MRI, which uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to create detailed images of bones, ligaments, and cartilage
• Ultrasound, which uses sound waves to visualize muscles and tendons
Treatment
Treatment for patellofemoral pain often starts with simple measures, including resting the knee and avoiding activities that worsen pain, such as climbing stairs, kneeling, or squatting.
Medicines
Over-the-counter pain relievers may help, including:
• Acetaminophen
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen sodium
These medicines should not be taken for more than two to three weeks without consulting a healthcare professional.
Therapy
Physical therapy may include:
• Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the knee and maintain proper leg alignment
• Supportive braces or arch supports to help reduce pain
• Taping techniques to stabilize the knee during activity
• Icing the knee after exercise to relieve discomfort
• Orthotics, either custom-made or ready-made, to reduce stress on the knee
• Participation in knee-friendly sports, such as bicycling or swimming, during recovery
Surgical and other procedures
If conservative treatments do not relieve symptoms, your healthcare provider may consider:
• Arthroscopy, where a small camera and surgical tools are inserted through tiny incisions to repair knee problems
• Realignment surgery to correct the angle of the kneecap or relieve pressure on the cartilage in more severe cases
Advertisement
