Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)

Kinesiology Taping for Knee Pain - Patella tendonitis and Patella femoral pain 

Patellofemoral syndrome (PFPS) is characterized by a group of symptoms that are easily diagnosed and often respond to simple management.

The pain is typically located behind the kneecap and is usually felt during activities that require knee flexion and forceful contraction of the quadriceps (performing squats, going up and down stairs).

The pain may get worse and last longer when the client continues to perform the aggravating activity.

Clients may also report pain when sitting with their knee flexed for a long period of time, such as while watching a sports event, or at the movies.

The potential causes of PFPS remain controversial. Overuse, overloading, and misuse of the patellofemoral joint seem to be the factors on which most experts agree.

Interestingly, the results of a 2011 study of high school running athletes, suggested that stronger pre-injury hip abductors and weaker pre-injury hip external rotators may be linked to PFPS development.

Treatment

There is a link below to more articles where you can find information covering trigger points and PFPS, and a number of treatment protocols.

The video above is an example of the taping techniques commonly used to great effect.

There is an ongoing argument concerning the use of tape, with many claiming that it's nothing more than a fashion statement!

Our experience (working with just about everyone from weekend warriors to elite athletes), is that taping is certainly an accelerator and can provide significant benefit as part of the wider treatment program.

John Gibbons is a qualified and registered osteopath with the General Osteopathic Council, specializing in the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of sport-related injuries. Having lectured in the field of sports medicine and physical therapy for over 12 years, John delivers advanced therapy training to qualified professionals within a variety of sports. He has also published numerous articles on various aspects of manual therapy.

This trigger point therapy blog is intended to be used for information purposes only and is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or to substitute for a medical diagnosis and/or treatment rendered or prescribed by a physician or competent healthcare professional. This information is designed as educational material, but should not be taken as a recommendation for treatment of any particular person or patient. Always consult your physician if you think you need treatment or if you feel unwell.