Patellofemoral Syndrome: How Much Do You Know About This Pain Syndrome?
Patellofemoral Syndrome: How Much Do You Know About This Pain Syndrome?
Patellofemoral syndrome happens to be a condition where a person experiences pain in the knee, especially in the front and around his or her kneecap (which is referred to as the patella). Doctors also refer it as runner’s knee or jumper’s knee. This painful condition is responsible for the extreme amount of pain experienced under the kneecaps. One might be under the impression that the name ‘runner’s knee’ means it affects only athletes. But you will be surprised to know that it is really not the scenario. In reality, this is one of the most commonly faced knee pain that people are facing.
Patellofemoral syndrome is not only extremely painful, but it prevents the smooth movement of a person (especially climbing up and down, running, bending the legs, sitting for a prolonged time, engaging in physical activities, and so on).
What Are The Symptoms Of Patellofemoral Syndrome?
Now, that you know so much about Patellofemoral syndrome, it is crucial to understand its hallmark symptoms. The primary symptom is the aching, dull pain that arises on the front side of your knee. One can experience the pain in both knees. The pain worsens with vigorous activity. Some of the other symptoms are –
● Pain while exercising
● Popping or cracking sound after sitting down for a long time or while climbing stairs.
● Pain when trying to bend the knee or squatting, jumping, or climbing the stairs.
You might think that Patellofemoral syndrome is defined by the locking and unlocking of the knee joint, but that’s not the case. When a person is suffering from this syndrome, it means they have some form of injury, especially a meniscal tear.
Can Patellofemoral Syndrome Be Treated Naturally?
The pain that is caused under the kneecaps can obviously be treated without undergoing painful procedures or swallowing a bunch of tablets. The first thing that you need to do here rests your kneecaps. Rest your knees as much as possible and prevent kneeling or squatting. Drinking ginger tea or applying ice packs will also offer an immense amount of relief. You can even give supportive shoe inserts or knee braces a try – they can offer the necessary help.
A little rest will go a long way!
You need to reduce the load or pressure that is exerted on your kneecap and thigh bone. Stop every activity that is the cause of such pain immediately. You can’t perform high impact exercises (step aerobics) or resistance training exercises. Avoid bending your knees for longer durations and don’t wear heels.
Make Use Of Ice Packs:
Inflammation can be reduced by the use of ice packs. This reduces the temporary pain you are experiencing. After every 3 hours, apply ice packs for about 20 minutes or so. But, make sure you don’t apply it directly. Wrap the ice in a towel and proceed.
Consider Physical Therapy:
Physical therapy has proved to be impactful while curing the patellofemoral syndrome. It strengthens the movement of the quadriceps which are involved in the kneecap movement.
However, under any scenario, when you feel the pain has worsened, immediately consult a doctor.
