Patellofemoral Pain

At Masterton Foot Clinic, we regularly assess people with knee pain and understand that the knee does not function in isolation. The way your feet, ankles, hips, and lower limbs work together can significantly influence the forces passing through the knee.

What is patellofemoral pain?

Patellofemoral pain refers to pain arising from the structures around and behind the kneecap (patella).

It is generally considered a load-related condition, where the forces passing through the kneecap exceed the joint's ability to tolerate them.

Unlike arthritis, patellofemoral pain commonly affects younger and active individuals, although it can occur at any age.

Many people do not realise how closely the foot and knee are linked. Changes in foot posture, ankle mobility, footwear, muscle strength, and walking mechanics can all influence the loads passing through the knee.

Symptoms

• Pain around or behind the kneecap
• Pain when climbing or descending stairs
• Pain during squatting, lunging, or running
• Pain after sitting for prolonged periods
• Knee stiffness
• Clicking, grinding, or crunching sensations within the knee
• Pain during sport or exercise
• Reduced confidence with activity

Causes

Patellofemoral pain is usually caused by a combination of factors rather than a single problem.

Common contributing factors include:

• Sudden increases in training or activity levels
• Weakness of the quadriceps or hip muscles
• Reduced lower-limb strength and conditioning
• Foot and lower-limb biomechanics
• Running and movement patterns
• Footwear
• Reduced tissue capacity
• Previous injury

Because the foot is the foundation of movement, changes in foot function can influence how forces are transferred through the knee during walking, running, and sport.

When to see a podiatrist

We recommend an assessment if your knee pain:

• Is affecting your walking, exercise, work, or sport
• Persists despite rest or activity modification
• Continues to worsen
• Returns whenever you increase your activity levels
• Limits your ability to remain active

Early intervention often allows problems to be addressed before they become more persistent and difficult to manage.

As ACC-registered practitioners, we can also assess your injury and lodge ACC claims where appropriate.

How we treat patellofemoral pain

At Masterton Foot Clinic, our Proven Process combines current evidence with extensive clinical experience.

We focus on identifying the factors contributing to excessive load through the knee and developing a treatment plan tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and activity levels.

Depending on your presentation, treatment may include:

• Strength and rehabilitation programmes
• Custom Foot Orthoses
• Knee bracing where appropriate
• Footwear advice
• Load management strategies
• Running and movement assessment
• Foot Mobilisation Therapy (FMT)
• Activity modification and return-to-sport planning

Our goal is to help you reduce pain, improve function, and remain active long term.