Treatment of Patellofemoral Problems

The first line of treatment of patellofemoral problems focuses on reducing the inflammation in the knee. This can be achieved with rest and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen. Physical therapy may be advised for patients in the early stages of treatment. The therapy therapist may involves icing, massage, and/or ultrasound to prevent pain and swelling. Your surgeon or physical therapist may also recommend orthopedic bracing or taping for your kneecap (patella) to correct the alignment of the kneecap. This alone may prove sufficient to improve your flexibility, strength and muscle balance. If these conservative or non-invasive measures fail to relieve your pain or improve your condition, minimally invasive surgery or arthroscopy may be recommended.

Arthroscopy is an accurate way to determine the extent of damage, degeneration or wear and tear on the articular cartilage surfaces. During the surgery, if your surgeon determines that there are areas of articular cartilage that are rough, s/he may make the surface smooth using a procedure known as shaving the patella.

In advanced cases of patellofemoral problems, surgical repair may be used to restore damage to the articular cartilage. The type of surgery depends on the size, type, and location of the damage.

A procedure known as lateral release can help in treating patellofemoral problems. Lateral release refers to cutting the tight ligaments on the outside (lateral side) of the kneecap to allow the patella to slide more toward the center of the femoral (thigh bone) groove. Such surgery may be suggested if your patellofemoral problems are the result of misalignment. After the surgery, as the ligaments heal, the resulting scar tissue fills the gap left by the surgery. As a result, the quadriceps mechanism becomes balanced and the pressure on the articular cartilage behind the kneecap gets equalized.

In some cases, the tendons on the inside edge or the medial side of the knee may also have to be tightened. In severe cases, the treatment of patellofemoral problems may need realignment of the bones. The surgeon will remove some part of the bone where the patellar tendon attaches on the tibia, followed by reattaching the tendon on the tibia closer to the other knee with the help of screws.

After surgery, physical therapy, that includes stretching and strengthening exercises, will be prescribed to regain muscle balance and help in the patellofemoral surgery recovery. Your exercises may be part of a formal physical therapy routine to correct any muscle imbalances.

Dr. Adam Farber at Phoenix Shoulder and Knee clinic in Phoenix, AZ is a skilled and experienced orthopedic surgeon who specializes in all types of orthopedic treatments.

To learn more or to consult one of the best orthopedic doctors in Phoenix, AZ, call Phoenix Shoulder and Knee at 480-219-3342.

Phoenix Shoulder & Knee
1215 W Rio Salado Parkway
Suite 105, Tempe, AZ 85281

This release was published on openPR.