Patellofemoral syndrome, which is also called chondromalacia patella, is a common condition that causes knee pain. Initial symptoms may include mild and generalized knee pain that is felt only during activity. But ignoring the early warning signs can lead to a more serious injury. Medication and exercises are the usual course of treatment. A doctor or physical therapist will need to design a program that is safe based on the patient's individual situation.
Identification
Patellofemoral syndrome is diagnosed when the kneecap does not move or track correctly, but the exact cause of this condition is unknown, states the American Academy of Family Physicians. It can affect just one or both knees and tends to cause pain and stiffness when the knee is held in a bent position or when the patient is running, jumping, squatting and being active. Initial treatment includes applying ice and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
Benefits
The goal of exercise is to help the kneecap move properly. The sooner treatment starts after symptoms appear, the better. If activity is continued when there is pain, symptoms such as swelling, grinding sounds when moving the knee, weakness and sensations that the knee is going to give out will occur, warns the Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine and Athletic Trauma. Tight and weak leg muscles can contribute to the symptoms.
Features
The Nicholas Institute notes that a well-rounded exercise program for patellofemoral syndrome includes strengthening and stretching the muscles that support knee movement. These include the quadriceps, or front top of the thigh; the hamstrings, or the top back of the thigh; and the inner and outer thigh muscles (adductors and abductors). All of these muscles are recruited in walking, running, jumping and squatting. They must all be strong and flexible to provide the stability to allow the knee to track the way it should.
Strengthening Exercises
Leg lifts while lying down are common exercises prescribed for patellofemoral syndrome. The exercise involves lying on the back, keeping the knee straight and lifting the leg up to strengthen the quadriceps. Lying on the stomach, keeping the leg straight and lifting the leg will work the hamstring muscles. Lying on the side and lifting the bottom leg up will work the inner thigh, and lifting the top leg will work the outer thigh and hip. A physical therapist will need to evaluate each patient individually to decide how often a given exercise should be performed and for how many repetitions and sets.
The Mayo Clinic recommends focusing on the outer hip muscles, as these muscles can prevent the knee from rolling inward. Initially, leg exercises are done without weights, but when the muscles get stronger, a doctor or physical therapist may advise using ankle weights, bands and eventually machines to add more resistance.
Stretching Exercises
Stretching the muscles that support the knee is an important part of treatment and the prevention of future injuries. Stretching while lying on the stomach tends to put the least amount of stress on the knee, notes the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. While lying on your stomach, bring one foot to the buttocks, holding it with your hand if possible, to stretch the quadriceps. Standing runner's stretches can loosen the hamstrings, and various seated stretches can target the inner and outer thighs.
Stretches should be done slowly and gently. Never bounce a stretch, as this can injure the muscles. While stretching, take slow, deep breaths and focus on relaxing into the stretch. Stretching two or three times a day may be recommended until flexibility improves. Then daily stretching, plus stretching before and after activity, will be necessary.
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