What Is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome? Mitcham & Aspendale Gardens, Victoria
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), often referred to as runner’s knee, occurs when the patella (kneecap) does not move properly within the groove of the femur (thigh bone). This misalignment can lead to irritation of the soft tissues, inflammation, and, in some cases, damaged cartilage in the knee joints.
Common factors contributing to PFPS include:
- Repetitive stress on the knee joint during high-impact activities.
- Poor alignment of the kneecap or partial dislocation.
- Weakness in the quadriceps muscles, hip abductor muscles, or lower leg muscles.
- Flat feet, improper footwear, or insufficient shock absorbers in running shoes.
- Conditions like iliotibial band syndrome, chondromalacia patella, and jumper’s knee.
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Symptoms of Runner’s Knee
Runner's knee is a broad descriptor for various knee pain conditions related to the kneecap.
The common symptom of runner’s knee pain is a dull, aching pain in the front of the knee, particularly after activities that strain the joint. Additional symptoms include:
- Pain when climbing stairs, kneeling, or squatting.
- Stiffness or discomfort after sitting for long periods.
- Swelling, grinding, or clicking sensations in the knee.
- A sense of instability during physical activities.
If this pain persists, it is essential to consult a physical therapist or orthopaedic surgeon for a thorough physical examination to identify underlying causes.
Diagnosing Runner’s Knee
At Full Speed Performance, we employ a thorough physical examination and advanced diagnostic tools like MRI scans to diagnose runner’s knee accurately.
During the assessment, our experts evaluate:
- Alignment of the thigh bone, shin bone, and kneecap.
- Strength and flexibility of the quadriceps muscles and hip abductor muscles.
- Signs of chondromalacia patella, strained tendons, or inflammation.
Injuries We Treat
Knee Injuries
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Veteran Team That Listens
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Symptom Management
We carefully assess and address your specific pain points and discomfort
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Pathology Understanding
We analyse your injury through detailed assessment and imaging when necessary
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Objective Progress Tracking
We measure your improvement week-by-week using advanced testing technology
Take Control of Your Knee Health
Don’t let runner’s knee pain hold you back. Whether you need treatment for an existing condition or wish to prevent future injuries, Full Speed Performance is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and take the first step toward pain-free movement.
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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
Runner's Knee, or Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, refers to pain around or behind the kneecap caused by repetitive stress, poor biomechanics, or muscle imbalances. It often develops from overuse, improper running form, or wearing unsupportive footwear. Activities like running, climbing stairs, or prolonged sitting can exacerbate the condition.
Common symptoms of runner's knee include:
- A dull, aching pain around or under the kneecap.
- Stiffness or discomfort during activities like squatting, running, or sitting for long periods.
- Grinding or popping sensations in the knee joint. If you experience these symptoms, our physiotherapists can provide a thorough assessment and accurate diagnosis.
At Full Speed Performance, we offer a comprehensive approach to Runner’s Knee treatment, including:
- Physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles supporting the knee.
- Manual therapy techniques to relieve pain and improve movement.
- Orthotics and footwear advice for proper knee alignment.
- Personalised exercise plans focused on rehabilitation and injury prevention.
- Cutting-edge performance testing to identify and address biomechanical issues.
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and individual factors. Most clients see significant improvement within 6-12 weeks with our tailored rehabilitation programmes. Adherence to the prescribed exercises and modifications is essential for a successful recovery.
Preventative measures include:
- Gradually increasing the intensity of physical activities.
- Wearing supportive and properly fitting footwear.
- Incorporating dynamic warm-ups and static stretches into your routine.
- Strengthening the muscles around the knee, hips, and core to improve stability.
- Avoiding hard surfaces and ensuring proper running mechanics.

