What to expect from physiotherapy for patellofemoral pain syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome describes pain around or behind the kneecap, often linked with activities such as stairs, squats, running, or sitting with the knee bent. A therapist may assess hip and thigh strength, flexibility, kneecap movement, foot position, balance, and how your knee moves during a squat or step. The findings help separate helpful challenges from loads that currently irritate the knee.

Education may cover pacing, warm-up, recovery, footwear, and temporary changes to training. Some people also benefit from taping or other short-term supports, depending on the examination.

Your home plan may include quadriceps and hip strengthening, controlled step or squat practice, and flexibility work where it is relevant. Start with the amount and technique prescribed, then progress when movement quality and symptom response are suitable. Avoid repeatedly testing a painful movement throughout the day. Note which tasks bring on symptoms and whether discomfort settles afterwards, then share that pattern at review.

Seek medical advice promptly for a locked knee, major swelling, inability to bear weight, a new injury with severe pain, or repeated giving way. Urgent care is appropriate for a deformed knee, a cold or numb foot, or fever with a hot swollen joint. Persistent pain despite a carefully followed plan should be reassessed because pain around the kneecap can have more than one cause.

Which movements should I modify first? Which muscles need the most attention? How can I maintain fitness while symptoms settle? What change would show that the programme needs review?