When is exercise therapy recommended for patellofemoral pain syndrome?

Patellofemoral pain syndrome involves pain around or behind the kneecap during activities that load the knee. A physiotherapist may look at hip strength, thigh strength, ankle movement, running or walking habits and how the knee tracks during a squat. Improving control can make everyday and sporting movements more comfortable.

Start with exercises you can perform with steady alignment and tolerable symptoms. The plan may include hip and thigh strengthening, controlled step-downs, gentle mobility work and a gradual return to running or jumping. Temporarily reducing deep squats, hills or repeated jumping can lower irritation while strength and control improve. Progress one factor at a time, such as resistance, repetitions or activity time.

Arrange an assessment if knee pain keeps returning, changes your gait or prevents normal activity. Seek prompt care for a suddenly swollen knee, a locked knee, inability to bear weight, a traumatic injury, marked warmth and redness with fever, or a new feeling that the knee is giving way.

Ask which activities to modify, how to judge acceptable soreness, whether footwear or training changes could help, and how to progress back to stairs, running or sport.