Linda Jung RMT, BComm

Patellofemoral syndrome (patellofemoral pain syndrome) results from a variety of degenerative changes to the cartilage on the back of the kneecap. These changes result in pain, swelling, instability and reduced ability to bear weight on the affected leg.

The knee joint is made up of the articulation (a joint where bones attach to allow for movement) of two long bones, the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone), covered by the patella (knee cap). As the knee straightens and bends the patella glides in a set pattern to allow for movement of the knee.

The patella is a small bone covered by a thick cartilage lining that allows it to glide over the femur without friction. Attached to this thick cartilage are the thigh muscles called quadriceps. The quadriceps consists of four muscles – biceps femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis and vastus intermedius. They are all responsible for straightening of the knee. When they contract, they pull the patella over the end of the femur. If the muscles do not contract with their proper force, the patella will not move through its normal pattern – essentially it becomes off-track. Over time, this abnormal tracking will damage the cartilage on the underside of the patella, resulting in swelling, instability and knee pain.

Another cause of patellofemoral pain syndrome is misalignment or pathology of the hip, pelvis and ankle joints. These joints have a direct impact on the knee as they form a kinetic chain that is responsible for weight-bearing and movement. If one of these joints is not functioning properly, it will affect the mechanics of the kinetic chain. This alters the articulation of the knee and proper tracking of the patella.

With patellofemoral syndrome, pain occurs in the knee especially with activities such as descending stairs, running, jumping, squatting or with prolonged sitting. Furthermore, along with swelling of the knee, pain will result in reduced range of motion and the feeling of instability.

Massage therapy can help with patellofemoral syndrome by significantly reducing pain and swelling through a variety of techniques and remedial exercises. One technique is manual lymphatic drainage. Fluid in the swollen area is gently pushed away from the affected site. The quadriceps are treated followed with stretching to reduce muscle tightness and home exercises are provided to promote and maintain proper function of the knee.

For more information on patellofemoral pain syndrome, please click here.

If you have any questions about patellofemoral pain syndrome and how registered massage therapy can help, please give us a call at 416-926-0084.

Linda Jung works with a multi-disciplinary team of Naturopathic Doctors, Chiropractor and a Clinical Exercise Physiologist at the Rosedale Natural Health Clinic located in the Rosedale neighborhood of Toronto.