Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), sometimes also called “runner’s knee,” is one of the most common running injuries. It is normally associated with a dull pain felt around or underneath the kneecap. Aggravating activities can include squatting, running (especially down a slope), sitting for prolonged periods, and descending stairs.
Typically people with this condition have a muscle imbalance involving the hip abductors and external rotators which impacts running biomechanics, resulting in an inward drift of the knee.
Literature suggests that a successful rehabilitation program should address these dysfunctions by including appropriate stabilising hip abductor, external rotator, and quadriceps strengthening exercises.
By Nic Cote BSc MCSP SRP
Senior Physiotherapist
