Peer Reviewed Patient Education

What are the signs and symptoms of patellofemoral syndrome?

Generalized pain around the kneecap is the most common symptom of patellofemoral syndrome:

The patient may have a history of a dull, aching pain in the knee, not necessarily in one specific area.

If the pain is in front of the knee below the kneecap, it is probably caused by tendon inflammation called infrapatellar tendonitis or "jumper's knee".

Running, going down stairs, squatting, or sitting for a long time with knees bent usually increases pain.

Although full range of motion is usually possible, flexing the knee completely is painful.

Crepitus (a crackling noise under the patella) may occur during knee movement.

A slight swelling may exist

Symptoms may be present in one or both knees.

Decreased kneecap motion

At Seaport we believe in meeting patients' individual needs through comprehensive evaluation and treatment, designed to help achieve an active, pain-free lifestyle. Seaport physicians take the time to know you and work with you from your initial symptoms or injury, through every aspect of your recovery. Our goal at Seaport is to enable our patients to get back to a full active lifestyle as quickly and safely possible.

Our group is comprised of various physicians whose specialties include orthopaedic surgery, treatment of the hand, knee, spine, hip, foot and ankle, physical medicine and rehabilitation and pain management.