What is it?

The knee cap (patella) is a small bone that sits in the femoral grove at the lower end of the thigh bone (femur). The undersurface of the patella is covered with a layer of smooth cartilage allowing the patella to easily glide across the joint. However, if the patella does not track properly within the femoral grove, softening, irritation and/or degeneration of the cartilage may occur resulting in knee pain. This process is referred to as Patellofemoral Syndrome (PFS) or Chondromalacia Patella. Symptoms are usually worsened by activity such as walking, running, ascending or descending stairs and by prolonged sitting.

What causes it?

Although the exact cause remains unknown, contributing factors include:

• Foot pronation
• Knock-kneed
• Muscle imbalance

What does treatment involve? (may include 1 or all of the following)

• Rest
• Anti-inflammatories as prescribed by a physician
• Physiotherapy / Massage Therapy
• Orthotics 
• Brace – Recommended Braces

Please consult your physician for a complete diagnosis of your injury.