The knee joint is one of the most important joints in our body. It plays a vital role in ensuring smooth and trouble-free movement. Any injury to this joint can make it difficult for the person to walk, stand, or sit. In this post, we will have a detailed look at the joint which is present at the back of the patella (kneecap). Yes, you’ve guessed it right; we’re talking about the patellofemoral joint.
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The junction where the back of the kneecap and femur meet is called the patellofemoral joint. It plays a vital role in climbing, walking on an inclined plane, and many other knee movements. Just like all other joints in our body, the patellofemoral joint is also prone to injuries and one of the commonest that people experience is “Runner’s Knee.”
The patellofemoral joint has a complex structure that comprises bones and a big network of muscles & connective tissues. The bony surfaces present in the joint are covered with articular cartilage. The cartilage helps the joint glide smoothly when the knee bends or straightens.
The patellofemoral joint helps perform various body functions where some of which include:
Thus, it won’t be wrong to say that the patellofemoral joint is involved in various day-to-day activities. Any injury to the joint can affect our routine lives.
Several conditions can affect patellofemoral joints. Some of the common ones are:
Patellofemoral Arthritis
This is when the articular cartilage present at the back of the patella wears away. As a result, inflammation in the joint occurs. With time, wear & tear become severe and painful complications start to occur. This condition needs to be addressed timely to improve the quality of life.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
The condition may occur as a result of misalignment of the bones or repeated contact of joint surfaces. This causes pain, irritation, and inflammation in the joint while reducing the range of motion of the knee.
Chondromalacia
Chondromalacia is a condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage present on the underside of the kneecap. This is a chronic condition and may require surgical repair. The symptoms associated with the condition include a dull ache, muscle weakness, and knee-alignment problems.
Patellar Dislocation
This is when the kneecap (dislocation) slips out of its place i.e., the patellofemoral groove. This is a painful condition and affects the ability of the person to walk or stand.
The treatment of the condition depends on the severity of the condition. However, both surgical and non-surgical treatments for the condition are available. They include:
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