At Country Hills Physiotherapy in Calgary, we specialize in providing long-lasting treatment for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), commonly known as “runner’s knee.” Our dedicated team is focused on creating personalized care plans to relieve your pain, improve your knee function, and help you get back to your desired level of activity without any discomfort.
Understanding Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a common knee condition that causes discomfort and pain around the kneecap (patella). It mainly affects individuals who participate in activities requiring significant knee bending, such as running, squatting, and jumping, but it can impact anyone.
Signs of PFPS
PFPS symptoms can vary but usually include:
- Pain in the front of the knee, around or behind the kneecap, especially when sitting with bent knees, squatting, jumping, or using stairs.
- A feeling of grinding or popping when bending or extending the knee.
- Occasional swelling around the kneecap, worsening the discomfort.
Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early intervention, which can significantly enhance outcomes and prevent the progression to more severe knee problems.
Factors Contributing to PFPS
Several factors play a role in the development of PFPS, including:
- Muscular Imbalances or Weakness: Differences in strength among the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles can lead to improper patella tracking on the femur.
- Overuse: Repetitive stress on the knee joint from high-impact activities can strain the patella and surrounding tissues.
- Biomechanical Issues: Poor alignment of the legs and feet can increase pressure on the knee joint, contributing to PFPS.
- Injury or Trauma: Direct impact to the knee can trigger PFPS symptoms, especially if the knee muscles are weak.
Specialized Physiotherapy for Runner’s Knee
At Country Hills Physiotherapy, we start with a thorough evaluation of your knee to confirm PFPS and identify any contributing factors. This comprehensive assessment may include a physical examination and a detailed history of your symptoms and activity levels.
Customized Treatment Plans
Based on our assessment, we develop a personalized treatment plan that focuses on:
- Relieving Immediate Pain: Strategies may involve rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) for pain relief.
- Addressing Muscular Imbalances: A key aspect of PFPS treatment includes specific exercises to strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles, enhancing knee stability and function.
- Improving Flexibility: Prescribed stretching exercises help increase muscle flexibility around the knee, reducing tension and pressure on the patella.
- Enhancing Biomechanics: Guidance on appropriate footwear to correct any biomechanical issues contributing to PFPS.
Continued Support and Education
Our dedication to your recovery goes beyond in-clinic treatment. We offer ongoing support, including home exercise programs and advice on lifestyle modifications, to ensure you can manage your symptoms effectively and prevent recurrence.
Our Diverse Services
Country Hills Physiotherapy takes pride in providing a wide range of services to support your overall well-being and recovery journey. From injury prevention to performance enhancement, we tailor our services to meet your individual needs and goals.
- Physiotherapy Clinic
- Registered Massage Therapy
- Dry Needling
- Cupping Therapy
- Pelvic Floor Physio
- Physiotherapy for Hockey Players
- Baby Head Shape Physiotherapy
- Vestibular Rehabilitation
Trust Country Hills Physiotherapy for Complete Care
Choosing Country Hills Physiotherapy means putting your health and recovery in the hands of a team dedicated to your well-being. Our therapists utilize the latest evidence-based techniques in our modern facility to not only treat PFPS but also improve your overall knee health and function.
Begin Your Recovery Journey Today
If you’re experiencing patellofemoral pain syndrome in Calgary, contact Country Hills Physiotherapy. Let us create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and help you get back to the activities you enjoy, free from pain.
Other Knee Conditions We Address
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FAQs about Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Treatment (Runner’s Knee) in Calgary
Can Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Be Managed?
While there isn’t a universal “cure” for patellofemoral pain syndrome, most individuals can find significant relief from their symptoms and return to their desired activities with an appropriate treatment plan. Treatment usually involves reducing immediate pain and swelling, followed by exercises to strengthen and balance the knee muscles. This approach helps alleviate pressure on the patella, preventing future pain episodes. With dedication to a personalized physiotherapy program, most people experience substantial improvement in their symptoms and knee function.
What Are Effective Exercises for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?
The best exercises for managing patellofemoral pain syndrome are those that strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip abductors, and gluteal muscles without causing additional stress to the knee joint. Examples include straight-leg raises, clamshells, and seated leg presses, targeting muscle groups that support the knee. It’s also beneficial to include exercises that enhance flexibility and balance, such as stretching and proprioceptive exercises. A physiotherapist will design an exercise regimen tailored to your specific requirements, ensuring you engage in activities that promote recovery without worsening your condition.
How Can I Prevent Recurrence of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?
Preventing the recurrence of patellofemoral pain syndrome involves maintaining a healthy balance of strength, flexibility, and stability in the knee muscles. Consistently performing exercises to strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and core, along with flexibility exercises for the lower body, can be beneficial. It’s crucial to pay attention to proper form during physical activities, avoid excessive high-impact exercises that overload the knee, and wear suitable footwear. Regular check-ups with a physiotherapist can help identify any imbalances early and adjust your exercise routine to keep your knees healthy.
How Soon Can I Resume My Regular Activities After Treatment?
The timeline for returning to sports or regular activities after treating runner’s knee varies widely among individuals, depending on the severity of their condition and their response to treatment. Generally, a gradual return to activity is recommended, starting with low-impact exercises and gradually increasing intensity under the guidance of a physiotherapist. It’s essential not to rush this process, as returning to full activity too quickly can increase the risk of re-injury. Most people start to notice improvements within a few weeks of consistent treatment, but complete recovery may take several months.
Can Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Affect Both Knees?
Yes, Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome can impact both knees, although symptoms may be more pronounced in one knee than the other. This bilateral involvement is common in individuals whose activities or biomechanical issues stress both knees similarly. Treatment and rehabilitation strategies should consider the condition of both knees, even if one appears less affected, to ensure balanced strength, mobility, and prevent the less affected knee from deteriorating due to compensatory movements.
Country Hills Physiotherapy
8730 Country Hills Blvd NW #230, Calgary, AB T3G 0E2, Canada
(587) 747-0755
Hours:
Monday to Friday: 7 AM – 8 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed