A common condition that individuals present with is patello-femoral knee pain. Patello-femoral knee pain refers to pain experienced in the front of the knee, specifically around the patella (kneecap) and the femur (thigh bone).
Patello-femoral knee pain is a condition characterised by pain and discomfort in the front of the knee joint. It often occurs due to the misalignment or improper tracking of the patella as it glides along the femur during movement. The patella acts as a fulcrum, facilitating the proper functioning of the quadriceps muscles and transmitting forces from the muscles to the lower leg.
Symptoms of Patello-Femoral Knee Pain
The symptoms of patello-femoral knee pain can vary from person to person, but commonly include:
- Anterior Knee Pain: Pain is typically felt at the front of the knee, around or behind the patella. The pain may be described as a dull ache, sharp discomfort, or a burning sensation.
- Pain with Activity: The pain is often exacerbated by activities that involve bending the knee, such as walking, running, climbing stairs, or sitting for prolonged periods with the knees flexed.
- Crepitus: Some individuals may experience a grinding or cracking sensation (crepitus) when moving the knee joint.
- Swelling and Inflammation: Inflammation and swelling around the patella may occur, resulting in localised warmth and tenderness.
What Causes Patello-Femoral Knee Pain
Patello-femoral knee pain can arise from various factors, including:
- Poor Biomechanics: Abnormalities in lower limb alignment, such as excessive foot pronation (flat feet), tight or imbalanced muscles, or improper joint tracking, can contribute to patello-femoral knee pain.
- Overuse or Overload: Engaging in repetitive activities that place excessive stress on the knee joint, such as running, jumping, or repetitive bending, can lead to patello-femoral pain.
- Muscle Imbalances: Weakness or imbalances in the muscles surrounding the knee, particularly the quadriceps and hip muscles, can affect the alignment and movement of the patella, leading to pain.
- Trauma or Injury: Direct trauma or injury to the patella or surrounding structures can cause patello-femoral knee pain.
How Does a Podiatrist Diagnose Patello-Femoral Knee Pain
A biomechanical podiatrist employs a comprehensive approach to diagnose patello-femoral knee pain, which includes:
- Medical History Review: Your podiatrist will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any factors that may have contributed to the development of patello-femoral knee pain.
- Physical Examination: Your podiatrist will conduct a thorough physical examination, assessing the alignment of your lower limbs, joint mobility, muscle strength, and flexibility.
- Gait Analysis: A detailed gait analysis may be performed to evaluate your walking or running pattern, identifying any abnormalities in foot mechanics, alignment, or joint movement that may contribute to knee pain.
- Biomechanical Assessment: Your podiatrist may use specialised equipment, such as video analysis, to assess foot function, weight distribution, and lower limb movement during walking or running.
- Imaging Studies: In some cases, your podiatrist may request imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to evaluate the bony structures and assess the alignment of the knee joint.
How Will a Podiatrist Treat Patello-Femoral Knee Pain
Once diagnosed, a biomechanical podiatrist can recommend appropriate treatment options to effectively manage patello-femoral knee pain. The treatment plan will depend on the underlying causes and individual circumstances. Common treatment approaches include:
Orthotic Devices: Custom-made orthotic inserts can be prescribed to address foot and lower limb alignment issues, provide support, and improve biomechanical function. Orthotics can help reduce excessive pronation, control joint movement, and alleviate patello-femoral knee pain.
Strengthening Exercises: Your podiatrist may recommend specific exercises to strengthen the quadriceps, hip, and core muscles. Strengthening these muscles helps improve stability, correct imbalances, and enhance overall lower limb function.
Flexibility and Stretching: Stretching exercises targeted at the quadriceps, hip flexors, and iliotibial band can help improve flexibility and reduce tension, thereby reducing stress on the knee joint.
Footwear Evaluation: The podiatrist can assess your footwear and recommend appropriate shoes that provide adequate support, cushioning, and stability. Proper footwear can help absorb shock, reduce excessive pronation, and minimise stress on the patello-femoral joint.
Biomechanical Analysis and Correction: Your podiatrist may utilise advanced techniques, such as gait retraining or the use of wedges, lifts or inserts, to correct abnormal lower limb alignment and improve movement patterns.
Knee Pain, Patello-Femoral Pain Treatment and Prevention
In addition to treatment, certain preventive measures can help manage patello-femoral knee pain and reduce the risk of its recurrence:
- Cross-training: Incorporate a variety of low-impact activities, such as swimming, cycling, or elliptical training, to reduce repetitive stress on the knee joint.
- Gradual Progression: Avoid sudden increases in training intensity or duration. Gradually increase activity levels, allowing adequate time for the body to adapt.
- Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Prior to exercise, engage in a thorough warm-up routine to prepare the muscles and joints for activity. Afterward, include a cool-down period to gradually decrease heart rate and stretch the muscles. Proper Technique: Learn and maintain proper form and technique when engaging in physical activities or sports to minimise stress on the knee joint.
- Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the load and stress on the knee joint.
- Consult your podiatrist for a tailored stretch and exercise plan to ensure your cross-training and warm-up/cool-down is right for your knee pain and supporting prevention and treatment of Patello-femoral pain.
Summary
Our team of Podiatrists have a strong focus on biomechanical podiatry and are highly experienced to prevent and treat Patello-femoral knee pain. Visit our experienced team for Knee Pain – Patello-femoral pain Treatment in Melbourne, please call 03 9878 4566 or email [email protected] and we can book you in for a Biomechanical Assessment in the closest clinic location that suits you; Blackburn, Melbourne CBD, Newport, Elsternwick, Caroline Springs or Springvale.