Conquering Knee Pain: The role of Sports Therapy

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a common knee condition that affects individuals of all ages and activity levels. Characterised by pain around or behind the kneecap (patella), PFPS often arises from overuse, muscle imbalances, or improper biomechanics. While PFPS can be frustrating, sports therapy offers effective interventions to alleviate pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence.

Understanding Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

PFPS occurs when the patella does not track properly within the femoral groove, leading to increased pressure and irritation on the surrounding structures. Activities such as running, jumping, squatting, and prolonged sitting can exacerbate symptoms, causing pain with daily movements and exercise.

Sports Therapy Intervention

Sports therapy plays a crucial role in the management of PFPS, focusing on addressing underlying biomechanical issues, improving muscle strength and flexibility, and optimising movement patterns. Here's how we can help individuals overcome PFPS:

1. Assessment

A comprehensive assessment is conducted to identify contributing factors to PFPS, such as muscle weakness, tightness, or faulty movement patterns. We will analyse gait (walking patterns), joint alignment, and muscle imbalances to tailor a personalised treatment plan.

2. Muscle Strengthening

Specific exercises are prescribed to strengthen the muscles around the knee, particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip abductors. Strengthening these muscles helps stabilise the knee joint, improve patellar tracking, and reduce pain during weight-bearing activities.

3. Flexibility Training

Stretching exercises target tight muscles, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip flexors, and iliotibial band (ITB), to improve flexibility and joint mobility. Enhanced flexibility reduces tension on the patella and surrounding structures, alleviating pain and improving movement mechanics.

4. Movement Re-Education

Sports Therapists guide individuals through movement re-education exercises to correct faulty movement patterns and improve biomechanics during functional activities. This may involve proper squatting, lunging, jumping, and landing techniques to reduce stress on the knee joint and promote pain-free movement.

Conclusion

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome can be a persistent and painful, but by addressing underlying biomechanical issues, strengthening weak muscles, improving flexibility, and optimizing movement patterns, sports therapy empowers individuals to overcome PFPS and return to their desired activities pain-free.

If you’d like to book in for a sports therapy consultation, please call us on 01202 604707 or email admin@wimbornewellnesscentre.co.uk.