Final answer:
Patellofemoral pain syndrome, often termed Runner's Knee, presents with pain around the front of the knee or deep to the patella. Common examination findings relate to imbalances in the quadriceps femoris muscle leading to lateral tracking of the patella and subsequent knee pain. Treatment typically involves rest and targeted muscle strengthening to prevent future issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as Runner's Knee, is a condition that affects the knee and can be identified by several examination findings. Common causes include the abnormal tracking of the patella toward the lateral side due to an imbalance in muscle pull, particularly the quadriceps femoris muscle. This misalignment may result in pain, damage to the knee structures, and potentially arthritis.
Typical symptoms include a dull, aching pain around the front of the knee and deep to the patella, which may worsen during activities like walking, running, going up or down stairs, kneeling or squatting, or after sitting with the knee bent for a prolonged period. Factors such as excessive running, particularly downhill, participating in sports with a lot of knee bending, flat feet or improper footwear can exacerbate the issue.
Treatment often involves rest from aggravating activities, followed by a gradual resumption. Strengthening exercises for the quadriceps femoris muscle help correct imbalances and prevent reoccurrence. Women are particularly vulnerable to patellofemoral syndrome due to a larger Q-angle, attributed to wider pelvises, which predisposes them to lateral tracking of the patella.