Patellofemoral Pain

We asked local physical therapist, Cindy Shimamoto,  to give us some insight on anterior knee pain. Her complete contact information is listed below.

Whether you are new to running or have been running marathons for years, you need to be aware of some common running injuries so that you can recognize the symptoms and seek assistance as quickly as possible.  Symptoms that begin as an “ache” or “nagging pain” can quickly transition into more severe biomechanical issues or even cause damage to muscles, ligaments, tendons, or joint surfaces.  One of the most common complaints in runners is pain at the kneecap which is called patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) or “runner’s knee.”  This is characterized by dull, aching pain underneath the kneecap due to increased stress and compressive forces on the joint.  Pain is worse when descending stairs, squatting, kneeling, or when the foot contacts the ground during running, especially when running downhill.  It can also flare up when sitting for a long time or after doing long runs.  Likely causes are muscle imbalances (particularly weakness of the hips and quads,) flexibility issues (particularly tightness in the hip flexors,) and running form.  Overstriding is one common cause of knee pain which can be corrected and which may assist in reducing pain.  You may need to reduce mileage, run on softer surfaces or avoid running on hills until the symptoms subside.  Look for pain upon initiating your run that may go away but returns during or at the end of the run or pain that begins to affect daily activities such as stairclimbing and squatting and address the issues as quickly as possible to reduce any delay in your running.

Cindy Shimamoto, PT, OCS, COMT

Center Manager – Creve Coeur

SSM Physical Therapy

12382 Olive Blvd.

Creve Coeur, MO  63141

314-453-9675 (phone)