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[Conditions](https://durgical.com/en/conditions/) · [Knee](https://durgical.com/en/conditions/)

# Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is pain around or behind the kneecap that worsens with squatting, stairs or sitting for a long time.

Updated 2026-10-23

## Structures involved

Tap one to see what it is and open it in 3D.

- [Patella](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/patella/)
- [Patellar cartilage](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/articular-cartilage-of-patella/)
- [Femoral cartilage](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/articular-cartilage-of-femur/)

## What it is

Pain around or behind the kneecap that worsens with squatting, stairs, or prolonged sitting.

## Symptoms and signs

- Anterior knee pain
- Pain worse with stairs, squatting, or sitting with the knee bent

## Diagnosis

**Clinical**
History and exam; imaging is usually normal

## Treatment

**Rehabilitation**
Physical therapy focused on quadriceps and hip strengthening.

Educational information, not medical advice. For any symptom, see a health professional.

Sources: [Patellofemoral Syndrome](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557657/) (StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf), 2024).

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Representative model, for educational purposes only.

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Source: https://durgical.com/en/conditions/patellofemoral-pain-syndrome/
License: CC BY 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Cite as: DurgiPedia (durgical.com), https://durgical.com/en/conditions/patellofemoral-pain-syndrome/