Preston Physiotherapy | Understanding Patellofemoral Pain or Kneecap Pain

Why Individual Assessment Matters

Front knee pain is a common concern that can interfere with walking, exercise, and daily routines. Patellofemoral pain, often felt around or behind the kneecap, can affect people of varying activity levels and backgrounds. Australian Sports Physiotherapy’s recent article provides clear, easy-to-understand information about why this type of discomfort develops and how multiple factors may contribute over time. It outlines how movement patterns, muscle coordination, physical load, and lifestyle habits can influence symptoms. Rather than focusing on a single cause, the article highlights the importance of understanding individual differences. For those exploring Preston Physiotherapy options, this information supports informed discussions and encourages people to better understand their knee concerns before seeking professional guidance.

Restoring Knee Comfort Through Better Support

It starts as a dull ache around the front of your knee, maybe when climbing stairs, running, or even just sitting for too long. At first, it’s easy to shrug off. But when that nagging discomfort turns into sharp pain every time you bend your leg, it’s impossible to ignore.

Kneecap pain, often linked to patellofemoral pain syndrome, is one of those frustrating conditions that can sneak up on anyone, athletes, gym-goers, or even people who spend long hours at a desk. It’s not just about overuse; it’s about how your knee moves, how your muscles support it, and whether everything is working together the way it should.

The key to easing that pain lies in understanding what’s really happening beneath the surface and what steps you can take to restore strength, balance, and comfort to your knees once again.

What is Patellofemoral Pain?

The knee is a complex joint made up of several parts, one of which is the patellofemoral joint—where your kneecap (patella) glides over your thigh bone (femur). This joint is designed to handle loads when you walk, run, climb stairs, or squat.

But when the kneecap isn’t moving properly, or the joint is under too much stress, it can cause irritation and pain. That’s what we call patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).

What Causes Patellofemoral Pain?

PFPS is usually not due to a single problem but is multifactorial, meaning it’s often a combination of several issues. Here are a few key reasons why pain develops in the patellofemoral joint:

1. Muscle imbalance

Sometimes, the muscles that control your kneecap aren’t working evenly. If the inner thigh muscle (called the vastus medialis) is weaker than the outer thigh muscle (vastus lateralis), the kneecap can get pulled sideways, causing pain.

2. Poor patella tracking

Your kneecap should move smoothly in a groove on the thigh bone. But if it’s misaligned or pulled off track (called “maltracking”), pressure builds up on one side of the joint.

3. Hip and glute weakness

Weak glutes and hip stabilisers can lead to poor leg alignment during walking or running. This affects how your kneecap moves and can lead to pain.

4. Foot mechanics

If your feet roll inwards (a condition called pronation), it can twist your lower leg and change how forces move through the knee. This can stress the patella.

5. Overuse and impact

Activities that involve lots of bending, kneeling, or running (especially downhill) can overload the joint. Over time, this can wear down the cartilage behind the kneecap, a condition known as chondromalacia patella.

6. Other factors

• Direct trauma or injury to the kneecap.
• Changes in footwear or running surfaces.

Common Symptoms of Patellofemoral Pain?

• A dull ache at the front of the knee.
• Pain when going up or down stairs.
• Discomfort after sitting for a long time.
• Clicking or grinding when you bend or straighten the knee.

What Can Help?

Most people recover well with the right treatment. Your physio might recommend:

1. Strengthening exercises for the glutes, hips, and inner thigh.
2. Massage or trigger release to tight muscles like the outer thigh or calves.
3. Footwear advice or orthotics if you have flat feet or pronation.
4. Activity modification to reduce joint stress while you heal.
5. Hands-on therapy to help with stiffness or joint alignment.
6. Education on posture, alignment, and pain management.

When Should You See a Physio?

If your knee pain has lasted longer than a few weeks, or it’s getting in the way of your usual activities, it’s time to get it checked. A physiotherapist can assess your movement, identify any contributing factors, and tailor a rehab program just for you.

Will Patellofemoral Pain Ever Go Away?

The good news is that for many people, patellofemoral pain syndrome can and does go away with the right management and treatment.

Factors That Can Predict a Poor Prognosis

• Longer symptom duration (pain lasting longer than 12 months).
• Higher severity of pain (both usual and worst pain).
• Worse self-reported function at the time of diagnosis.

The most crucial step is to see a healthcare professional or a physiotherapist for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan, as this significantly increases the chances of a positive outcome.

Final Thoughts

Kneecap pain can be stubborn, but it’s rarely without a cause. Whether it’s muscle imbalance, poor alignment, or overuse, your knee is simply reacting to how your body moves and bears weight. Ignoring the discomfort only allows the problem to grow, while addressing it with proper strengthening, stretching, and movement correction can make a world of difference.

Healing patellofemoral pain isn’t just about reducing symptoms — it’s about restoring balance and teaching your body to move the way it was meant to. With patience, the right exercises, and attention to form, your knees can regain the comfort and strength they deserve, letting you move freely again without that nagging ache holding you back.

Take The Next Step With Confidence

Preston is a well-connected suburb in Melbourne’s north, known for its diverse community, active lifestyle, and access to parks, shopping precincts, and public transport. Australian Sports Physiotherapy offers physiotherapy services within Preston and its surrounding suburbs, supporting individuals across the northern Melbourne area with accessible, community-based care.

If you’ve ever wondered why kneecap discomfort develops, Australian Sports Physiotherapy offers clear information to help you better understand patellofemoral pain and the factors that may influence it. Our article, Why Does My Kneecap Hurt? Understanding Patellofemoral Pain supports informed decision-making and encourages people not to ignore ongoing symptoms. For personalised guidance and further information, you’re encouraged to contact Australian Sports Physiotherapy for a consultation. Connecting with a Preston physiotherapist can help you explore suitable next steps and gain clarity around knee discomfort and movement concerns.

Contact Information:

Australian Sports Physiotherapy

279 Gilbert Rd West Preston 3072
Preston, 3072
Australia

David Georgy
https://australiansportsphysio.com/