Initial Treatment and Diagnosis of Patellofemoral Syndrome
An individual suffering from what they think is patellofemoral syndrome should have the condition diagnosed by a doctor or physiotherapist. A course of treatment may be required to reduce the pain and swelling in the first instance. However, individuals can follow a home maintenance plan to prevent further occurrences of this painful condition.
Immediate Relief from Patellofemoral Syndrome
Individuals suffering from the knee pain associated with patellofemoral syndrome often find that ice offers immediate relief. Sufferers can wrap crushed ice in a towel or cloth and apply it to the affected area for 15 or 20 minutes every one to two hours. Anti-inflammatory medications can be used alongside the ice treatment to help reduce pain and swelling in the area.
Managing Patellofemoral Syndrome Flare-ups
Any individual suffering from a flare-up of their patellofemoral syndrome symptoms should rest as much as possible until the immediate pain subsides. Additional use of the knee joint can irritate the kneecap further and cause additional or prolonged pain and swelling.
Preventing Patellofemoral Syndrome
Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help sufferers to manage their patellofemoral syndrome on a long term basis and prevent flare-ups from occurring. A physiotherapist can recommend exercises which can help strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee as well as correcting the alignment of the kneecap. Exercises which stretch the quadriceps, iliotibial band, hamstring and hip flexor muscles are often recommended and sufferers should perform these regularly at home.
Exercising with Patellofemoral Syndrome
Individuals returning to their exercise regimes following a flare-up may wish to choose low impact activities such as cycling, cross training or swimming rather than those which involve a lot of movement in the knee area for the first few days. When they feel ready they can return to other activities such as jogging, stepping or jumping. Individuals should be aware that constant use of the knee joint can trigger patellofemoral syndrome. Sufferers should always use pain as a guide and stop as soon as they feel any pain or discomfort. The subsequent pain may be more intense if an individual tries to override the warning signs and complete their work-out. Ignoring the body's signals can also lead to extended recovery times.
Reader Caution
It is recommended that individuals seek advice from a qualified health care practitioner such as a doctor or physiotherapist if they are experiencing knee pain for the first time.
