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Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Treatment in Glen Iris

Physiotherapy for patellofemoral pain syndrome and anterior knee pain — in-clinic and in-home across Glen Iris.

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Suffering From Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome in Glen Iris?

PFPS is pain from the interaction between the kneecap (patella) and thigh bone (femur). Normally, the patella glides smoothly within the trochlear groove during knee movement. Disrupted movement or excessive joint stress can irritate soft tissues and bone around the kneecap, including tendons, fat pad, and synovial tissue.

Sometimes, PFPS involves chondromalacia patella: softening and breakdown of articular cartilage under the kneecap. Though cartilage lacks nerves, its damage can inflame the synovium, causing pain in the underlying bone.

Common Symptoms & Causes Of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

  • Pain during activities that repeatedly bend the knee, such as climbing stairs, running, jumping, or squatting [1, 2].
  • Pain after prolonged sitting with bent knees, often described as
  • Pain related to changes in activity level, intensity, playing surface, or equipment [2].
  • Popping or crackling sounds in the knee when climbing stairs or standing up after prolonged sitting [2].

Our Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Treatment Approach

Every patient is different. We start with a thorough assessment to understand exactly what’s causing your pain — then build a personalised treatment plan around your goals, lifestyle, and timeline.

  • Comprehensive Assessment: Detailed assessment of quadriceps strength, knee mechanics, and contributing factors.
  • Acute Injury Management: RICE protocol and load protection to control swelling and protect the injured muscle.
  • Progressive Quadriceps Loading: Evidence-based eccentric and isometric loading program to rebuild quadriceps strength.
  • Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Release: Hands-on treatment to reduce muscle tension and restore knee range of motion.
  • Neuromuscular Control Training: Balance and coordination exercises to restore quadriceps function and prevent re-injury.
  • Return-to-Sport Testing: Strength symmetry and functional testing before clearance to return to full training.

In-Clinic & In-Home Available

We treat patients both at our Glen Iris clinic and in the comfort of your own home — ideal for patients who find it difficult to travel.

NDIS Participants Welcome — We work with self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants. Contact us to discuss your funding options.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a common condition characterized by pain around or behind the kneecap. It often worsens with activities like running, jumping, squatting, or going up and down stairs, and is frequently linked to overuse or biomechanical imbalances.
PFPS often results from a combination of factors including muscle imbalances (weakness in glutes or VMO, tightness in quads or ITB), poor foot mechanics, sudden increases in activity, or improper training techniques. Our detailed assessment identifies your specific contributing factors.
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive physical examination, including assessment of knee and hip strength, flexibility, patellar tracking, and gait analysis. Imaging like X-rays or MRI is usually not required unless other conditions are suspected.
Recovery times vary based on severity and adherence to treatment. Most patients experience significant improvement within 6-12 weeks with consistent physiotherapy, though chronic cases may require a longer, more structured rehabilitation approach.
Often, yes, but with modifications. Our clinicians will guide you on appropriate activity levels and exercises that don’t aggravate your symptoms, focusing on pain-free movement and gradual progression to maintain fitness during recovery.
Effective treatments typically include targeted exercises to strengthen hip and knee muscles, biomechanical correction, load management strategies, and manual therapy. Our

Ready to Get Started?

Book an appointment for patellofemoral pain syndrome treatment at our Glen Iris clinic today.

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Or call us: (03) 9999 7271