Patellofemoral Joint Pain and How Podiatrists Can Help
Patellofemoral joint pain is a common orthopaedic condition that affects the kneecap (patella) and the thigh bone (femur).
This condition can be debilitating, impacting an individual’s ability to engage in physical activities and even perform simple daily tasks.
While knee pain is often associated with problems in the knee joint itself, there’s a crucial connection between patellofemoral joint pain and the feet.
In this article, we will explore the anatomy of the patellofemoral joint, the role of foot biomechanics, and how podiatrists play a pivotal role in diagnosing, treating, and preventing patellofemoral joint pain.
What is the Patellofemoral Joint?
The patellofemoral joint is located at the front of the knee and is where the patella glides over the femur during knee flexion and extension.
This joint is vital for proper knee function, allowing for smooth and stable movements. However, several factors can lead to patellofemoral joint pain, including overuse, trauma, muscle imbalances, and poor biomechanics.
Biomechanics refers to how the body’s muscles, bones, and joints work together during movement. The knee is influenced by the alignment and function of the entire lower limb, which includes the feet.
When there are issues with foot biomechanics, it can affect the alignment of the knee, potentially leading to patellofemoral pain.
How the Feet Affect the Patellofemoral Joint
Understanding the kinetic chain concept is essential to grasp the relationship between patellofemoral joint pain and the feet. The kinetic chain refers to the interconnectedness of joints and muscles throughout the body during movement. When one part of the chain is affected, it can influence other areas.
Foot biomechanics play a crucial role in this chain. For instance, overpronation – where the feet roll inwards excessively – can lead to altered knee alignment, putting increased stress on the patellofemoral joint. Conversely, supination – the insufficient rolling inward of the feet – can also affect knee alignment and lead to patellofemoral pain.
Podiatrists, as experts in foot and lower limb health, are trained to assess foot biomechanics and their impact on the entire kinetic chain. They play a vital role in diagnosing and addressing foot-related factors that contribute to patellofemoral pain.
What are the Symptoms of Patellofemoral Joint Pain?
Patellofemoral joint pain typically presents with symptoms such as pain at the front of the knee, especially during activities like climbing stairs, squatting, or sitting for extended periods with bent knees. The pain may also manifest as a grinding or clicking sensation in the knee.
How are Patellofemoral Joint Pain Issues Diagnosed?
Podiatrists use a combination of physical examinations, patient history, and imaging (such as X-rays or MRIs) to diagnose patellofemoral joint pain. While other medical practitioners, such as knee specialists can diagnose this issue, a podiatrist has the added advantage due to their ability to evaluate foot alignment and biomechanics as part of the diagnostic process. This comprehensive assessment helps them identify foot-related factors contributing to knee pain.
How Can a Podiatrist Help in Managing Patellofemoral Joint Pain?
Working with a podiatrist to help alleviate patellofemoral joint pain offers a wide range of conservative treatment options, including but not necessarily limited to:
Custom Orthotics
Podiatrists can prescribe custom-made orthotic insoles designed to correct foot biomechanics. By providing proper support and alignment to the feet, these orthotics can positively influence knee alignment and reduce patellofemoral pain. Custom orthotics are designed for your feet specifically, so they can be used to address a wide range of issues you may experience, including patellofemoral joint pain.
Footwear Recommendations
Proper footwear is essential for maintaining healthy foot biomechanics. Podiatrists can provide guidance on selecting shoes that offer adequate support and cushioning. This is particularly important if you work in a job that requires you to be standing and/or walking around for long periods of time.
Exercise Therapy
Strengthening exercises for the lower limbs, including the hips, knees, and ankles, can help improve knee stability and reduce pain. Podiatrists can design customised exercise programs tailored to individual needs. As you may have gathered when we were talking about the kinetic chain, everything is connected, so if you can build strength and support in other parts of your body, it can help to alleviate other issues you may be experiencing, including patellofemoral joint pain.
Collaboration with Other Healthcare Professionals
In complex cases, podiatrists may collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists and orthopaedic surgeons, to ensure comprehensive care. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of the patient’s condition are addressed. We pride ourselves on offering a holistic approach to the care and treatment of all of our patients.
Can Patellofemoral Joint Pain be Prevented?
Whether you have a history of knee pain and/or foot issues or you’re concerned about issues arising in the future, there are steps you can take to prevent potential issues in the future. Some possible prevention strategies include:
- Maintain Healthy Footwear Habits: Invest in supportive footwear that suits your activity level and foot type.
- Stay Active and Balanced: Engage in regular lower limb strengthening exercises and maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of joint strain.
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule periodic check-ups with a podiatrist for foot assessments, especially if you’re experiencing knee pain or discomfort.
- Stretch and Warm-Up: Properly warm up and stretch before physical activities to reduce the risk of injury.
Come See Our Podiatrists Today
Patellofemoral joint pain can significantly impact one’s quality of life, but understanding its connection to foot biomechanics opens new avenues for diagnosis and treatment. With our expertise in lower limb health, we can help you to address knee cap pain and various other foot and lower limb issues you may be experiencing. We have clinics in Kilsyth and Healesville, and our services are available to people of all ages – take care of your feet with Hurst Podiatry today. Book an appointment here.
