Patella Femoral Pain Syndrome

Patella femoral pain syndrome is one of the most common causes of knee pain. The pain is due to inflammation of the patella femoral joint (the joint between your kneecap and thigh bone) typically caused by repetitive trauma such as running. The most common sign is front knee pain. It can present in one or both knees and mild swelling may be noticed. Going down stairs, or rising from a seated position may produce discomfort. The origin of this can be attributed to muscle imbalances. The weakness of the quadriceps muscle allows the patella to track too far to the outside, while the tightness of the IT band adds additional lateral (outside) force to the patella. This muscle imbalance combined with the repetitive trauma such as running leads to the inflammation of the patella femoral joint.

How can Natural Health Chiropractic help? Instrument-assisted soft tissue therapy can decrease the formation of scar tissue and promote healing. Acupuncture can assist with the management of pain and support healing. Rehabilitation can strengthen the muscles and reduce the occurrence of re-injury. These are just a few of the ways that Dr. Falkner can help.