Patellofemoral pain syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is pain in the front of the knee. It frequently occurs in teenagers, manual laborers, and athletes. It sometimes is caused by wearing down, roughening, or softening of the cartilage under the kneecap.

The main symptom is knee pain, especially when sitting with bent knees, squatting, jumping, or using the stairs. Sometimes your knee may suddenly and unexpectedly give way (buckle) and not support your body weight. It's also common to have a catching, popping, or grinding sensation when you're walking or moving your knee.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and past health and will do a physical exam. You might have an imaging test, such as an X-ray or MRI. These tests show the tissues inside your knee. This can help the doctor rule out other possible causes of your symptoms.

Your doctor can recommend treatments to reduce symptoms. For example, over-the-counter pain medicine, such as ibuprofen, can decrease swelling and pain. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to stretch and strengthen your legs. Taping or using a knee brace can stabilize the kneecap. If these don't help, you and your doctor may choose surgery.

• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• Rest and protect your knee. Take a break from activities that cause pain, such as long periods of sitting or kneeling.
• Put ice or a cold pack on your knee for 10 to 20 minutes after activity. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• If your doctor recommends an elastic bandage, sleeve, or other type of support for your knee, wear it as directed.
• If your knee is not swollen, you can put moist heat, a heating pad, or a warm cloth on your knee. After several days of rest, you can begin gentle exercise of your knee.
• Reach and stay at a healthy weight. Being overweight puts stress on your knees.
• Wear athletic shoes that offer good support, especially if you run.
• Use shoe inserts, or orthotics, if they help reduce your knee pain. Many drugstores and shoe stores sell them.
• See a physical therapist to learn more exercises and stretches to make your legs stronger.