PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN SYNDROME

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)
Overview
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), often called runner’s knee, is one of the most common causes of anterior knee pain. It occurs when the kneecap (patella) doesn’t track properly over the femur, leading to irritation of the underlying joint surfaces.
It’s especially common among runners, cyclists, and individuals who sit for long periods or perform repetitive squatting.
Signs & Symptoms
- Dull or aching pain at the front of the knee
- Pain when climbing stairs, squatting, or running downhill
- Discomfort after sitting for long periods (“movie sign”)
- Clicking or grinding sensation in the knee
- Occasional swelling or stiffness
Causes
- Muscle imbalances between quadriceps, hips, and glutes
- Weak gluteal or core muscles leading to poor knee alignment
- Tight quadriceps, calves, or IT band
- Overtraining or sudden increase in activity
- Poor footwear or biomechanics
How a Chiropractor Can Help
At Unify Rehab & Performance, we start with a comprehensive movement and strength assessment to determine why your kneecap is tracking abnormally.
Our approach includes:
- Manual therapy and adjustments for the hip, knee, and ankle to optimize alignment.
- Soft tissue therapy for tight quadriceps and IT band.
- Acupuncture to reduce pain and promote tissue healing.
- Rehabilitation focusing on hip and glute strength, knee control, and proper loading mechanics.
- Education on training modifications, footwear, and long-term prevention strategies.
Our goal is to get you back to pain-free activity while improving your knee’s resilience through strength and movement retraining.