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Knee

Patellofemoral Syndrome

What is Anterior Knee Pain/Patellofemoral Syndrome?

The knee is the largest joint in the body and one of the most complex. It’s made up of the femur, the tibia, and the patella. The patella moves up and down a groove on the front of the femur (trochlea) as the knee bends and straightens. This movement is guided and controlled by various structures including muscles and ligaments, with the quadriceps muscle group playing a crucial role.

Anterior knee pain, also known as patellofemoral syndrome or runner’s knee, refers to pain in the front of the knee and around the kneecap (patella). The condition often arises when the patella doesn’t move properly in the groove at the bottom of the thighbone (femur) during bending or straightening of the knee. It’s a common problem in individuals of all ages, especially among athletes, but can also affect non-athletes.

One of the most common injuries in Dr. Ben Mayo’s orthopedic office is knee pain. As a fellowship trained knee surgeon, Dr. Ben Mayo regularly sees patients in the Detroit area with patellofemoral pain syndrome to determine the best treatment options for them. Contact Dr. Mayo’s team today to schedule a consultation at one of his offices in Livonia, Sterling Heights, and Troy.

Several factors can contribute to anterior knee pain and patellofemoral syndrome. These include overuse of the knee in sports or activities that involve running, jumping, squatting, or climbing stairs. Other contributing factors can include muscle imbalances or weaknesses, particularly in the quadriceps and hip muscles, and abnormal knee alignment or movement patterns. Some of these things are modifiable and can be improved with physical therapy, while others are structural and based on your specific anatomy.

Symptoms of anterior knee pain and patellofemoral syndrome can vary but often include:

  • Pain in the front of the knee, which may be dull or aching
  • Pain that worsens with activities such as running, jumping, squatting, or climbing stairs
  • Pain when sitting for prolonged periods with the knees bent, such as in a movie theater or while driving (known as “theater sign”)
  • Crepitus, a crackling or grating sensation when the knee is bent and straightened
  • Occasional knee buckling where the knee gives way or feels unstable

While the symptoms of anterior knee pain and patellofemoral syndrome can sometimes resolve on their own with rest and avoidance of aggravating activities, this is often a recurring or persistent problem that may require treatment to address the underlying issues contributing to the pain.

Diagnosis is usually based on a thorough history and physical examination, focusing on the symptoms, the activities that provoke pain, and the presence of any risk factors for patellofemoral syndrome. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be used to rule out other conditions and to assess the alignment and movement of the patella.

Schedule a knee consultation

Dr. Ben Mayo is a board-certified, fellowship trained knee surgeon who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of complex knee problems such as patellofemoral pain syndrome. Dr. Mayo is regarded as one of the best knee surgeons in Michigan, and delivers tailored care that suits your needs, helping you return to your sport, your job, or your everyday activities as quickly and safely as possible. Dr. Mayo is conveniently located with clinics in Livonia, Sterling Heights, and Troy to serve the nearby communities such as Canton, Macomb, Farmington Hills, Novi, and Royal Oak. If you are having anterior knee pain from patellofemoral pain syndrome, contact Dr. Mayo to schedule a consultation today.

At a Glance

Ben Mayo, MD

  • Board-Certified, Fellowship Trained Sports Surgeon
  • Specializes in Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Shoulder, Elbow, Hip, & Knee Surgery
  • Published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and 10 book chapters
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