Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Treatment in Kansas City
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Physical Therapy Treatments in Kansas City.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a patellar tracking problem. It’s a term used to describe pain experienced at the knee involving the patellofemoral joint, which includes the knee cap and the boney groove which it lies in. The knee is a hinge joint and moves optimally in one plane of motion. The main joint of the knee is the tibiofemoral joint (where the end of the femur and tibia meet); as the knee bends and straightens, the tibia moves along the femur, cushioned by the medial and lateral meniscus. The second joint of the knee, known as the patellofemoral joint, consists of the knee cap and the femur. As the knee bends and straightens, the patella glides along the femur within the groove at the end of the femur. When movement at the patellofemoral joint is altered, pain can arise due increased friction and shearing of this joint and its surfaces. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is common in runners and athletes whose sports involved running, jumping, side-to-side movements, and twisting/turning.
Symptoms of
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Pain and Symptoms of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome may include:
- Dull, aching pain in the knee
- Pain behind, to the side of or in front of the patella
- Clicking or popping in the knee associated with pain
- Feeling like the knee is giving out or buckling
- Pain with walking/running and/or impact activities
- Pain going up and down stairs or with squatting movements
Treatments for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Physical therapy for patellofemoral Pain Syndrome should include the following factors:
- Addressing improper movement patterns that place increased strain and shear forces on the knee and patellofemoral joint
- Correcting muscle imbalances at the hip, knee, and ankle that can contribute to miss-tracking of the patella and poor loading mechanics
- Improving flexibility of the muscles of the hips and legs, including the quadriceps, TFL/iliotibial band and hamstrings
- Strength and endurance training for the core, hip, and leg muscles
- Motor control, balance, and gait training to optimize loading through the patellofemoral joint
Our Treatment Process
Our F.I.T. Physical Therapists understand the importance of including all of the above mentioned factors, and more, into the treatment for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. Our program emphasizes an individualized approach for your unique needs. F.I.T. physical therapy for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome in Kansas City includes hands-on manual therapy techniques such as ART; dry needling; FAKTR or Graston (an instrument-assisted myofascial release technique); joint mobilizations; Rock and Kinesio-taping; and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching techniques to improve pain-free range of motion and address muscular imbalances.
Our specialists also place a heavy emphasis on improving the strength in the gluteal, hip and core musculature, as well as utilizing motor control exercises such as Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) and other agility drills. We know that balance and proprioceptive training play a critical role in maintaining proper movement patterns and minimizing the risk of increased strain to the patellofemoral joint, all of which are key in reducing the likelihood of future injury.
Possible Treatments for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
For other treatment options, check out our chiropractic services for Patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Active Release Technique
Active Release Technique (A.R.T) is one of the leading soft tissue therapies for the treatment of muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves.
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Graston Technique
The physical therapy Graston technique is one of the leading instrument assisted soft tissue therapies for the treatment of muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves.
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Rehabilitation Exercises
Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Exercise that favors quality movements over quantity of reps is key to restoring proper function.
Learn MoreFrequently Asked Questions
Can you provide a Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome brace?
No, we cannot provide a brace for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome in Kansas City. However, we can refer you to someone who can. In the meantime, we can provide taping that can serve as a temporary support.
Do I need an MRI for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?
No, an MRI is not necessary to begin the rehab process when you have Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. A series of tests can be administered that will help your therapist determine if you should be diagnosed with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, or need treatments for it, in Kansas City.
Is there such a thing as Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome taping?
Yes, there is taping that is appropriate for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. Seeing a specialist is the best guarantee that the tape will be applied appropriately, therefore bringing the greatest relief.
Tell us about your pain.
Take a couple of minutes to tell us about your symptoms and pain areas. Prefer to chat over the phone? Call us for a free phone consultation.
Visit your local F.I.T. Physical Therapist
Meet the team at any of our 5 locations: Lee’s Summit, Crossroads, Blue Valley, Overland Park & Shawnee.
