Our Expert Guide for Patellofemoral Pain

Aristos Physiotherapy in Stewarton: Our Expert Guide for Patellofemoral Pain

Are you struggling with the discomfort of patellofemoral pain (PFP)? If so, you're not alone. This common knee condition can affect individuals of all ages and activity levels, making it essential to understand how to manage and alleviate its symptoms, to allow you to continue doing the activities you love. Our team of skilled Physiotherapists in Stewarton have developed this guide to show you how our team can help you recover and regain your active lifestyle without worrying about knee pain.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of patellofemoral pain and explore how physiotherapy can be your key to a pain-free future. 

Understanding Patellofemoral Pain

PFP is an umbrella term for a number of different conditions you may have heard of in the past. For example, "runner's knee,".  PFP is a condition characterised by discomfort around or behind the kneecap and the pain is often exacerbated by load bearing activities such as running, climbing stairs, or sitting for extended periods with your knees bent.

What can contribute towards the development of PFP?

  • Overload of High-Impact Activities: Accumulation of Running, jumping, or squatting, lunging, above your level of tolerance can cause overload of the patellofemoral structures and eventually lead to pain or discomfort

  • Poor Muscle Function: Weakness or tightness in the lower limb can mean that the Patellofemoral joint has to cope with more load than it can handle. Accumulation of this excessive load over time, can lead to pain

  • Anatomical Variations: Variations in the shape of our kneecap and the groove it sits in, can predispose some to a higher chance of developing PFP. 

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy is a highly effective approach to managing PFP. Our team of skilled physiotherapists in Stewarton will tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs, based on our own, unique in-depth assessment process. Here's a brief overview how physiotherapy can benefit you:

  • Comprehensive Assessment: Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment to identify the factors contributing to your PFP. 

  • Personalised Exercise Programme : You'll receive a personalised exercise program to rehabilitate your knee and get you back to full function. 

  • Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques such as soft tissue massage and joint mobilisation can help relieve pain and restore function, in conjunction with your home exercise programme.

  • Education and Advice: Your physiotherapist will educate you on anything that will help speed up your recovery. 

  • Activity Modification: In some cases, your physiotherapist may recommend modifications to your activity level and intensity to allow your knee to recover. 

  • Taping and Bracing: Taping and bracing techniques can help support the kneecap and alleviate pain during physical activities.

Conclusion
If you think you're suffering from patellofemoral pain, don't let it hold you back from living your best life. Our team of Physiotherapists can offer a personalised, effective, and non-invasive solution to manage and alleviate PFP. With the guidance of a skilled physiotherapist, you can regain pain-free mobility and return to your favourite activities. Please call 01563262123 or email info@aristosphysiotherapy.co.uk to find out more.

Ryan Barr