5 Proven Treatments for Patellofemoral (Knee cap) Pain

Patellofemoral or knee cap pain (PFP) is a common issue causing persistent knee discomfort, often interfering with daily activities such as kneeling, squatting, stairs and sit to stand. A recent systematic review analysed effective non-surgical treatments to manage knee cap or Patellofemoral pain. The findings highlight short-term solutions that reduce knee pain and improve knee function, empowering patients through active rehabilitation.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Short-term Relief: 5 interventions effectively improved pain and function at 3 months:
    • Knee-targeted exercise
    • Combined interventions (knee exercises with orthotics and activity modifications)
    • Foot orthoses
    • Lower-quadrant manual therapy (soft tissue work, lower limb stretches etc)
    • Hip-and-knee-targeted exercise
  2. Prioritise Active Treatments: Active rehabilitation outperforms passive approaches like dry needling or vibration therapy, which showed no significant benefit.
  3. Combined Approach is Best: Integrating multiple interventions, such as exercises and orthoses, may enhance outcomes more than standalone treatments.

Clinical Implications for Physiotherapy:
Physiotherapists should emphasise active knee rehabilitation, combining strength-building exercises for the hips and knees with tools like orthoses to improve pain and functionality. The evidence reinforces tailored and active care can help individuals regain control over their knee symptoms and lead more comfortable lives.

If you are suffering of anterior knee pain or patellofemoral pain, call our friendly staff on 9116 8691 (Tullamarine) or 9116 8693 (Carlton) to book in with one of our expert physiotherapists for management and rehabilitation of anterior knee pain. You can also book online via www.thephysiocrew.com.au.

TPC

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