Overuse of the knees can often cause pain around the kneecap. In simple terms, the knee may be bearing too much—or sometimes too little—load without enough time to properly adapt. Activities such as jogging, hiking, stair climbing, and intense cycling commonly contribute to this type of knee pain. Today, many people experience knee discomfort not only from sports injuries but also from lifestyle factors such as prolonged sitting, poor movement patterns, and inadequate recovery.
At Adapt Health Clinic, Dr. Mike Grossman works closely with patients to help them move better, recover safely, and prevent pain from becoming a chronic condition. By carefully evaluating where and why pain is occurring, Dr. Grossman develops personalized treatment and rehabilitation plans designed to restore function and long-term joint health.
What Is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)?
Patellofemoral pain syndrome—often referred to as patellofemoral syndrome—is a condition characterized by pain at the front of the knee, typically behind or around the kneecap. The term patellofemoral refers to the interaction between the kneecap (patella) and the thigh bone (femur).
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, PFPS is one of the most common causes of knee pain in active individuals and can affect people of all ages.
The discomfort usually begins as a mild ache and gradually worsens over time. Pain is often aggravated by:
- Climbing stairs
- Squatting or bending the knee repeatedly
- Running or jumping activities
- Sitting for long periods with bent knees
Many patients describe the pain as dull or aching, and stiffness may occur after prolonged sitting.
Common Symptoms of Patellofemoral Syndrome
Symptoms can vary slightly from person to person, but commonly include:
- Pain in the front or behind the kneecap
- Knee stiffness after sitting for long periods
- Discomfort when walking downstairs or downhill
- Occasional cracking, popping, or grinding sounds
It’s important to note that knee sounds alone are not usually a cause for concern. Many people experience clicking or popping without pain, which does not necessarily indicate a serious problem.
What Causes Patellofemoral Knee Pain?
Patellofemoral syndrome often develops due to a combination of factors, including:
- Overuse from repetitive activities
- Muscle imbalances in the hips, thighs, or knees
- Poor posture or faulty movement mechanics
- Weak hip or core muscles
- Sudden increases in activity without adequate recovery
When these factors are not addressed, stress builds up around the kneecap, leading to irritation and pain.
How Is Patellofemoral Syndrome Treated?
There is no single treatment that works for everyone, but research consistently shows that strengthening the hip and thigh muscles plays a critical role in recovery. A comprehensive approach that improves alignment, mobility, and muscle balance is often the most effective.
At Adapt Health Clinic, treatment may include a combination of therapies designed to reduce pain, restore movement, and prevent recurrence.
Chiropractic Care for Knee Pain
Chiropractic care focuses on improving joint alignment and biomechanics throughout the body. When the hips, pelvis, or spine are misaligned, extra stress can be transferred to the knees.
Chiropractic adjustments help:
- Improve joint mobility
- Reduce abnormal stress on the kneecap
- Support better movement patterns during activity
Advanced Therapies to Support Healing
In addition to chiropractic care, we may incorporate advanced therapies to accelerate recovery and reduce inflammation.
Laser therapy
Low-level laser therapy helps reduce pain and inflammation while supporting natural tissue healing.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy stimulates blood flow and tissue repair, particularly helpful for stubborn or chronic knee pain.
Massage and Soft Tissue Therapy
Soft tissue treatments help reduce muscle tension and improve flexibility around the knee and hip joints.
These therapies are often combined with guided rehabilitation exercises to help patients return to activity safely.
When Should You Seek Professional Care?
You should seek evaluation if:
- Knee pain persists despite rest
- Pain worsens with daily activities
- Swelling or stiffness limits movement
- Pain interferes with exercise or work
Early intervention can prevent knee pain from becoming chronic and reduce the risk of long-term joint issues.
Get Help for Patellofemoral Syndrome in Campbell & San Jose
If you’re experiencing knee pain that isn’t improving, our team is here to help. At Adapt Health Clinic, we provide personalized care plans focused on long-term relief and improved movement—not just temporary symptom management.
👉 Contact us here to schedule an appointment and start your recovery today.
