Anterior Knee Injury: Patellofemoral pain usually comes from an ostechondral injury. Usually the cause of these injuries include a direct blow to the anterior knee,dislocation or chronic subluxation of the patellofemoral joint. Pain is felt under the patella or deep inside the knee and , is exacerbated by maintaining the knee flexed for long periods of time.
The Mainstery of management for patellofemoral pain is an exercise program with early range of motion and quadriceps strengthening. This program strengthens the quadriceps muscles with minimal patellofemoral joint aggravation. As pain decreases, other exercises involving minimal patellofemoral motion maybe added. Only in severe cases is a surgical option considered. Relief of pain or subluxation with surgery is impredictable, however.
Patellar Tendinitis: Also known as jumperÕs knee, patellar tendinitis should be included in your differential diagnosis of anterior knee pain. It is an injury in which the patellar tendon becomes inflamed and painful. Tenderness is localized anywhere from the proximal pole of the patella (along length of tendon) to itÕs insertion on the tibia, but most noticed at the inferior pole of the patella.
Treatment of patellar tendinitis is rest, ice, and NSATDs. Strengthening exercises that strech the extensor mechanism are also important. Wearing patellar tendon braces may provide relief by decreasing the acutes symptoms of tendinitis secondary to exercise. Patellar tendinitis is a difficult problem to treat, complete relief may never be achieved and achieving any relief may take a long period of time. Surgery is rarely indicated. If surgery is under taken, itÕs goal is to remove painful scar tissue that may accumulate in chronic cases.