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PFSS (patellofemoral pain syndrome) treatment
Patellofemoral pain syndrome/PFSS is a syndrome that affects the joint between the femur and the patella. PFSS is common among active, athletic people, young people and adults. It is mainly young women who are affected by the syndrome. In runners, PFSS is said to be one of the most common injuries to suffer.
The pain in the knee is caused by abnormal movement of the kneecap over the femur. Prolonged, unilateral and heavy loading with repetitive bending and stretching of the knee can cause the structures in the joint to wear down and become inflamed. Most often, there is not a single cause, but several that create PFSS. For example, uneven strength in our thigh muscles, weak glutes and hips, and flat feet have been found to contribute to the problem. Most often, PFSS is not the result of direct trauma to the knee joint, but it does occur. Because several factors seem to be involved, it can be difficult to detect and treat PFSS.
Symptoms of PFSS.
PFSS usually presents as pain inside or around the kneecap. Pain is usually experienced when bending and stretching the knee joint. Pain in the knee tends to increase with activities such as running, walking and jumping. A cracking sound may occur when the joint is loaded. Sometimes there may also be a feeling that the knee is ‘out of joint’. Prolonged sitting with bent knees or squatting can also cause pain.
How is PFSS treated?
At the FasciaClinics, we analyze the whole body to see where compensations and imbalances exist and how they have spread. If there is a primary misalignment in the body, imbalances can spread further in the body, making it easier for muscles and tendons to overwork. Fascia treatment for PFSS involves balancing the body to even out the load on the knees, thus reducing the risk of overuse.
The entire pelvis is corrected and the spine is relieved and balanced. The treatment for PFSS is done both manually and mechanically with gentle vibrations. The vibration removes congestion in the fascia and starts its flow so that the cells can absorb substances more easily. This improves the body’s own ability to heal itself. The treatment does not hurt and is often experienced as very pleasant.
Knee pain – What can I do myself?
If you experience a lot of pain and discomfort, you should seek medical attention to rule out other injuries or conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
It is important to examine all factors that may affect knee pain. During rehabilitation, taping or the use of patella orthoses may be helpful to support the kneecap and prevent abnormal sliding. If flat feet are the cause of PFSS, shoe inserts may be an option.
Strength training of the legs, back and hip and gluteal muscles is important to help even out the load on the kneecap. Stretching these muscles is also important to maintain good knee joint function.
PFSS exercises
Exercises for PFSS should always be performed under the supervision of a healthcare professional or physiotherapist to ensure they are performed correctly and to minimize the risk of further injury.
Regular exercise is essential for managing PFSS. Some exercises, aimed at improving the flexibility and strength of the thigh muscles, can help to reduce the load on the kneecap and reduce pain. Other exercises may aim to increase blood flow to the inflamed area and to promote fascial health.
