Patellofemoral joint pain syndrome (PFPS) describes a very common condition in which a person experiences pain just behind the kneecap.  Pain associated with this condition can range from being sharp to dull/achy in nature and is usually reproduced with activities that put increasing stress on the joint, such as running, climbing stairs, squatting or prolonged sitting.

Successful treatment of this condition revolves around temporary behavior modification, such as reducing running mileage and avoiding periods of prolonged sitting and incorporating exercises that target the large gluteal muscles of the hip region.  Exercises that target this region help the person in pain learn how to control their leg better and move in new ways that alter the way stress is applied to the patellofemoral joint.

If you are experiencing pain at the front of the knee with some of the activities mentioned above, be sure to checkout our kneecap pain program where you can learn exercises that will help decrease pain and improve your overall function.