Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a common knee condition that generally affects runners and athletes involved in other jumping activities. It also affects adult athletes whose bones and ligaments have weakened due to sports injuries and intense use over long periods.

Causes of pain include structural alignment, muscle weakness in the knee, imbalances, intense use, muscle stiffness, and “flat feet”. In the case of muscle weakness, it can cause the kneecap to be positioned abnormally on the thigh bone. All these conditions cause pain around the kneecap. This pain tends to worsen with activity and can also occur during prolonged periods of inactivity. This intense, dull pain can occur in one or both knees.

Patellofemoral malalignment is a common disorder that causes cartilage injuries to the kneecap and even predisposes patients to patella dislocation. In both situations, surgical treatment is the definitive option when medical management and physical therapy have not been sufficient.