What Is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome? Mitcham & Aspendale Gardens, Victoria
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), sometimes known as anterior knee pain syndrome, runner's knee, or patellofemoral joint syndrome, refers to pain at the front of the knee and around the patella (kneecap). It’s among the most common knee syndromes in sporting and everyday settings.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain during or after activity (especially squatting, climbing stairs, running);
- Retropatellar pain (pain behind the kneecap);
- A sensation of the knee giving way;
- Stiffness or soreness after prolonged sitting.
Symptoms often develop gradually, making early recognition key to effective management.
medicare podiatry logo
hicaps podiatry logo
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency
What Causes Patellofemoral Pain?
Patellofemoral pain often results from a combination of factors, including:
- Repetitive overload from running, jumping, or squatting without adequate recovery;
- Quadriceps and hip muscle weakness, especially in the VMO (vastus medialis obliquus);
- Muscle tightness in the hamstrings, ITB, and calves affecting knee biomechanics;
- Poor alignment or gait mechanics, such as excessive foot pronation;
- Training load errors and insufficient movement variability.
Conditions like patellofemoral chondromalacia can also contribute to joint irritation and cartilage wear.
Our Expertise in Patellofemoral Pain Physio
At Full Speed Performance, our physiotherapists draw on elite sports experience to deliver PFPS care for athletes of all levels.
We use a combination of advanced diagnostics and individualised care to ensure every patient receives precise, targeted treatment.
We address:
- Knee pain on the patella and under the patella;
- Knee pain on extension and movement dysfunction;
- Clarke's test, the patella compression test, and the patellofemoral pain syndrome test as part of the diagnosis;
- Managing pain associated with patellofemoral dysfunction and medial retinaculum pain.
Our goal is to relieve pain and restore confident, unrestricted movement, at any level of performance.
Injuries We Treat
Knee Injuries
Shoulder Injury
Spine & Neck
Hip & Groin
Hamstring
Lower Leg
Ankle & Foot
Functional
Special Conditions
Veteran Team That Listens
-
Symptom Management
We carefully assess and address your specific pain points and discomfort
-
Pathology Understanding
We analyse your injury through detailed assessment and imaging when necessary
-
Objective Progress Tracking
We measure your improvement week-by-week using advanced testing technology
📞 Book Your Consultation Today
Don't let patellofemoral pain hold you back. Book with Full Speed Performance for expert treatment, education, and hands-on care. Get back to what you love—pain-free and at full speed.
Lok's ACL Rehab
Anthony's ACL & Meniscus Rehab
Deni & Tara's ACL Rehab
Our physiotherapy team has been trusted by
Our team at Full Speed Performance has supported everyone from elite athletes to everyday individuals, earning the trust of professional sports teams, orthopaedic specialists, and performance coaches. We deliver the same high-quality care to every client, whether you're aiming for peak performance or simply want to move pain-free.
FAQ
Common early signs include pain around or behind the kneecap during activities like squatting, climbing stairs, or running. You may also notice stiffness after sitting for long periods or a feeling that the knee is unstable or “giving way.”
No referral is needed. You can book directly with our team, and we’ll start with a thorough assessment to design your individualised treatment plan.
Recovery time varies depending on the severity and contributing factors, but many clients see significant improvement within 6–12 weeks. Early intervention, consistency with your program, and expert guidance are key to faster recovery.
Surgery is rarely needed for PFPS. Our approach focuses on conservative care, strengthening, mobility, movement retraining, and load management. We explore all non-surgical options first and support you with clear education on your progress.
Absolutely. While we work with professional athletes, our physiotherapy programs are tailored to all activity levels and ages. Whether you’re a runner, an office worker, or simply want to move pain-free again, we adapt your care to suit your needs.

