Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: An Update

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal conditions seen in sports medicine clinics. The pathophysiology of PFPS is multifactorial. These factors include both extrinsic risk factors, such as changes in training frequency or intensity, training surfaces and inappropriate shoe wear, and intrinsic risk factors, including lower extremity malalignment and muscle and soft tissue imbalances. A combination of biomechanical factors and tissue imbalances causes improper tracking of the patella in the trochlea of the femur, leading to increased stress at the patellofemoral joint. A thorough history and static and dynamic examination can aid the diagnosis of PFPS. Physical therapy continues to be the mainstay of conservative management of patients with PFPS, with a focus on a multimodal treatment approach with an individualized therapy plan based on anatomic and biomechanical factors. © 2014, Springer Science + Business Media New York.