Knee Pain Syndrome

Knee Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), or anterior knee pain syndrome, is pain under and around the kneecap that can’t be explained by other causes, such as tendinitis or bursitis. This syndrome also goes by other names. One is tracking disorder, because the patella tends to pull toward the outside. Another is chondromalacia patellae, meaning softening of the cartilage, because over time a rough-riding kneecap causes wear and tear on the cartilage beneath it, eventually leading to osteoarthritis. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is more common in women over 40 and in physically active teenage girls. Three major factors are involved, although their relative contributions can differ greatly from person to person:
Malalignment: People with a high Q-angle are at higher risk, as are people whose arches flatten with each step.
Muscle imbalance and tightness: Tight hamstrings, calves, and hip muscles increase the pressure between the kneecap and the thighbone. Of the four quadriceps muscles, three pull the kneecap toward the outside; if the innermost quadriceps muscle is relatively weak, this can create tracking problems.
Overuse: Bending the knee moves the patella tighter against the femur. Patellofemoral pain worsens with activities that put weight on the knee while it is bent, such as squatting or running on steps and hills.

from: everyday health