Patellofemoral Joint (PFJ) Pain

What is Patellofemoral Joint (PFJ) Pain?

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), also widely known as runner’s knee, is one of the most common causes of anterior knee pain, affecting the area around and behind the kneecap (patella). It develops when the patella doesn’t track smoothly within the femoral groove, causing irritation between the patella and femur — often described by clinicians as

patellofemoral joint (PFJ) pain in clinical settings, though most patients searching online will know it as runner’s knee or patellofemoral pain syndrome.

It’s frequently triggered by activities that load the front of the knee, such as running, squatting, stair climbing, cycling, and prolonged sitting with the knee bent. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to pain severe enough to limit mobility and interfere with daily activities.

Symptoms of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

People with patellofemoral pain syndrome typically notice symptoms building gradually rather than appearing after a single injury — a key difference from a traumatic knee injury such as a ligament tear or meniscus tear.

Pain Around the Knee cap: A sharp or dull ache typically felt around the front of the knee or behind the knee cap.
Increased Pain with Activity: Discomfort tends to worsen with knee-bending activities, like squatting, climbing stairs, or sitting for prolonged periods (referred to as the “theatre sign”).
Knee Stiffness: A feeling of tightness or restricted movement in the knee, especially after prolonged sitting.
Crepitus: A grinding or popping sensation during knee movement.

Who Gets Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

PFPS is especially common in:

Runners and cyclists — repetitive knee bending under load is the single biggest risk factor, which is why the condition is so strongly associated with the name “runner’s knee”.
Younger, active adults — PFPS is one of the most frequent causes of anterior knee pain in people under 40, particularly those who play pivoting or endurance sports.
People with muscle imbalances — weakness in the quadriceps (particularly vastus medialis obliquus) or tight hamstrings and IT band can alter how the kneecap tracks.
Those with biomechanical factors — flat feet, hip weakness, or poor patella alignment can all contribute.

Diagnosing Patellofemoral Joint (PFJ) Pain

A thorough diagnosis of patellofemoral pain includes:

Assessment of Knee Alignment and Patella Tracking: Observing how the kneecap moves during flexion and extension of the knee.
Muscle Evaluation: Testing the strength and flexibility of the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles.

Treatment We Offer

Mechanism of Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injection

Ultrasound guidance ensures the corticosteroid is injected accurately into the targeted area around the patellofemoral joint.
Reduces inflammation by suppressing the release of inflammatory chemicals (such as prostaglandins and cytokines).
Decreases swelling and irritation within the joint and surrounding soft tissues.
Relieves pain by reducing inflammation around pain-sensitive structures.
Allows improved joint movement by reducing pain during everyday activities.

Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injection

Accurate, targeted treatment with ultrasound guidance.
Reduces knee pain associated with patellofemoral joint syndrome.
Decreases inflammation within the affected joint.
Improves mobility and makes walking, climbing stairs and squatting more comfortable.
Facilitates physiotherapy, helping patients strengthen supporting muscles and improve kneecap tracking.
Minimally invasive alternative to surgery for appropriate patients.
Performed as an outpatient procedure with little or no downtime.
May provide pain relief for weeks to months, depending on the individual and underlying condition.

Mechanism of Ultrasound-Guided Hyaluronic Acid Injection

Ultrasound guidance ensures the hyaluronic acid is delivered accurately into the patellofemoral joint.
Restores joint lubrication, improving the movement of the kneecap over the femur.
Improves shock absorption, helping to reduce stress on the joint during weight-bearing activities.
Reduces friction between the joint surfaces, leading to smoother movement.
May help reduce inflammation by improving the joint environment and decreasing irritation.
Supports joint function by enhancing the properties of the synovial fluid.

Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided Hyaluronic Acid Injection

Precise injection using ultrasound guidance for optimal placement.
Improves joint lubrication, allowing smoother knee movement.
Reduces pain associated with patellofemoral joint syndrome.
May improve mobility during activities such as walking, climbing stairs and squatting.
Can provide longer-lasting symptom relief than corticosteroid injections for some patients, particularly where cartilage wear is present.
May delay the need for more invasive treatments in appropriate cases.
Minimally invasive outpatient procedure with little downtime.

Your Care Pathway with us

To book an appointment you can call our reception line, 0142084487, or email to info@altonpainclinic.co.uk or click the button given below.
Comprehensive Musculoskeletal examination and testing.
Same day Ultrasound Guided Injection for pain relief.
Discussion of your treatment plan, treatment plan can include advanced treatments for example Cortisone Injections, Hyaluronic injections and various other options tailored to your specific needs.

What our Patients say?

FAQS - PFJ Pain Syndrome

Is patellofemoral pain syndrome the same as runner's knee?

Yes. Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is the clinical term for the condition most people know as runner’s knee. Both describe pain around or behind the kneecap caused by irritation where the patella meets the femur.

What does patellofemoral pain syndrome feel like?

Most people describe a dull, aching pain around or behind the kneecap that worsens with squatting, climbing stairs, kneeling, or sitting for long periods with the knee bent — sometimes called the “theatre sign”.

What is the best treatment for patellofemoral pain syndrome?

Ultrasound-guided cortisone or hyaluronic acid injections can reduce inflammation and improve function.