Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis

Patellofemoral osteoarthritis affects the cartilage behind the kneecap, often causing pain when climbing stairs or sitting for long periods.

This page covers causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, medications, surgical approaches, and recovery guidance related to patellofemoral osteoarthritis.

Quick Facts

Focus	Details
Condition Type	Degenerative
Common Symptoms	Pain behind or around the kneecap, Pain with stairs or squatting, Grinding sensation, Swelling after activity
Typical Diagnosis	Medical history and physical exam, X-ray to assess joint space and bone changes, MRI to evaluate cartilage and soft tissues
Common Treatments	Activity modification and low-impact exercise, Physical therapy for strength and mobility, Weight management to reduce joint load, NSAIDs for pain and inflammation, Acetaminophen for pain relief

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes

Gradual wear of joint cartilage
Prior knee injury or surgery
Joint alignment or biomechanics issues

Risk Factors

Increasing age
Excess body weight
Repetitive loading or high-impact activity
Family history of joint disease

Symptoms and Signs

Pain behind or around the kneecap
Pain with stairs or squatting
Grinding sensation
Swelling after activity

Diagnosis

Medical history and physical exam
X-ray to assess joint space and bone changes
MRI to evaluate cartilage and soft tissues

Treatment Overview

Focus	Details
Non-Surgical Care	Activity modification and low-impact exercise, Physical therapy for strength and mobility, Weight management to reduce joint load, Bracing or assistive devices
Medications	NSAIDs for pain and inflammation, Acetaminophen for pain relief, Topical anti-inflammatory medications
Injections	Corticosteroid injections for flares, Hyaluronic acid injections in selected cases
Surgical Options	Patellofemoral joint replacement in select cases, Cartilage procedures or alignment surgery

Self-Care and Recovery

Regular low-impact activity (walking, cycling, swimming)
Ice/heat for symptom relief
Supportive footwear

Possible Complications

Progressive pain and stiffness
Reduced mobility and function
Joint deformity over time

FAQs

What is Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis?

Patellofemoral osteoarthritis affects the cartilage behind the kneecap, often causing pain when climbing stairs or sitting for long periods.

What symptoms are common?

Pain behind or around the kneecap, Pain with stairs or squatting, Grinding sensation, Swelling after activity.

How is it diagnosed?

Medical history and physical exam, X-ray to assess joint space and bone changes, MRI to evaluate cartilage and soft tissues.

Activity modification and low-impact exercise, Physical therapy for strength and mobility, Weight management to reduce joint load, Bracing or assistive devices, NSAIDs for pain and inflammation, Acetaminophen for pain relief.

When should I seek care?

Seek care for severe pain, swelling, fever, or inability to bear weight, or if symptoms persist despite self-care.