What to expect from exercise therapy for patellofemoral pain syndrome

The physiotherapist may watch you squat, step, walk, or run to see how the hip, kneecap, and foot work together. Early work may use gentle thigh contractions, hip strengthening, and controlled knee movements. Later exercises can add step-downs, single-leg control, or activity-specific drills. Temporary soreness may happen as muscles adapt, but pain that changes your movement or remains strongly aggravated needs review. The condition commonly presents with pain around or behind the kneecap during stairs, squats, running, or prolonged sitting, so progress is measured by easier tasks and improved control.

Complete the home programme at the agreed frequency and keep the knee aligned over the foot during exercises. Break up long sitting, adjust hills or deep squats during a flare, and increase running, jumping, or sport gradually rather than all at once. Bring your footwear and activity goals to the assessment if they affect symptoms. Find more guidance in [Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome](/conditions/patellofemoral-pain-syndrome/) and [Exercise Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/exercise-therapy/).

Arrange prompt assessment if the knee suddenly swells substantially, locks, gives way with injury, or cannot bear weight. Seek urgent help for a hot, red knee with fever or severe pain. Contact your therapist if symptoms steadily worsen, the kneecap feels unstable, or you develop new numbness or weakness.

Which movements are currently irritating my kneecap? How should I change stairs, running, or squats? What pain response is acceptable after exercise? Which strength or control milestone should come before returning to sport?