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Patello-femoral pain describes the location of the pain but not its cause. Overuse ("too much, too soon") or previous injury to the knee are common causes of knee pain. Biomechanical factors such as poor tracking of the patella in the femoral groove, flat (pronated) feet, weak inner thigh muscles and tight outer thigh muscles and/or ligaments can also cause patellofemoral pain. Sometimes "wear and tear arthritis" (osteoarthritis) or damage to the articular cartilage (chondromalacia) on the back of the patella causes the pain but in most cases of patellofemoral pain the knee joint is normal.
Examination techniques that detect biomechanical problems are helpful in the diagnosis of patellofemoral pain. X-rays are often done to assess the shape of the patella and to rule out osteoarthritis of the knee. Rarely are other tests such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) required.
The treatment of patellofemoral pain depends on it's cause and may include stretching and strengthening exercises, relative rest, icing, medication, foot orthotics and bracing. In rare cases surgery is required. Doctors and physiotherapists trained in treating patellofemoral pain can outline a treatment plan specific to each individual. Treatment of this condition initially involves rest, ice therapy, anti-inflammatory medications and taping
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