Understanding Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): Effective Treatment Through Physiotherapy

March 6, 2025

Understanding Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): Effective Treatment Through Physiotherapy

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), commonly known as “runner’s knee,” is a prevalent and often debilitating condition that affects many individuals, from active athletes to those leading more sedentary lifestyles. Despite its nickname, PFPS is not exclusive to runners and can impact anyone who participates in activities that load the knee joint.

…While PFPS can be a frustrating condition, the good news is that it is treatable with proper care…

What is Patellofemoral Pain?

PFPS is considered an overuse injury that causes pain in and around the patella (kneecap). It is a condition where the structures around or on the underside of the patella becomes irritated, leading to pain and discomfort, often with movement. The pain may range from mild to severe and can interfere with daily activities, especially those that require bending the knee, like climbing stairs, squatting, or running.

Prevalence of PFPS

PFPS is a widespread condition, affecting around 29% of adolescents and 23% of adults. It can impact individuals regardless of their activity level. While it is particularly common in those who participate in sports or activities that stress the knee joint—such as running, jumping, and squatting—sedentary individuals are also at risk. PFPS can affect anyone who places repetitive strain on the knee or engages in activities that involve frequent bending or heavy load-bearing.

Symptoms of PFPS

The hallmark of PFPS is pain around the knee, most notably beneath the kneecap. This discomfort can vary in intensity and location, with the pain sometimes fluctuating throughout the day. The pain is typically worse during activities that increase the load on the patellofemoral joint (PFJ). Common triggers of PFPS pain include:

Running, jumping, or squatting motions
Uphill walking
Climbing stairs, especially ascending
Deep knee bends, such as when sitting down or getting up from a chair

If left untreated, PFPS can evolve into a recurring issue, leading to persistent pain and altered knee function, which can significantly limit an individual’s ability to engage in daily tasks or sports.

Effective Treatment for PFPS

The key to managing and relieving PFPS lies in a multifaceted approach to treatment. Physiotherapy plays a significant role in both short-term pain relief and long-term recovery. Treatment strategies for PFPS include:

Personalised Exercise Programs: A tailored exercise program focusing on the rehabilitation of the hip and knee musculature is the most effective long-term treatment. Strengthening the muscles around the joints—particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip abductors—helps improve knee stability and reduces the strain on the patella. A strong, balanced lower body helps better distribute the PFJ forces placed on the knee during movement.
Manual Therapy Techniques: Physiotherapy can also involve manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilisations, which help improve the movement of the knee joint and alleviate pain. Taping, a commonly used method, can provide support and temporary relief from pain by altering the way forces are distributed across the knee joint. Additionally, custom-made orthotics may be used (as a short-term strategy) to correct any alignment issues or abnormalities in movement that contribute to the condition.

Take Home Message

While PFPS can be a frustrating condition, the good news is that it is treatable with proper care and attention. The most effective approach involves a combination of manual therapy for immediate (short-medium term) relief and personalised exercise programs for long-term management and prevention. Early intervention through physiotherapy can significantly reduce the risk of PFPS becoming a chronic issue, allowing you to return to your active lifestyle more quickly.

If you are experiencing symptoms of PFPS, it is highly recommended to seek physiotherapy treatment. A physiotherapist can assess your condition, develop a personalised plan to address the underlying causes, and guide you toward a full recovery.

Don’t let knee pain hold you back—take action today to continue enjoying an active, pain-free life.

(Collins et al., 2018; Crossley et al., 2016; Barton et al., 2015)

For More Help:

For more information and help, please contact Janika at the Wellington Branch.

Janika Harley

Physiotherapist & Practice Owner