Management of patellofemoral problems.

Patellofemoral pain is often a challenge for the physiotherapist, because of its complex aetiology. Physiotherapists with their understanding of soft tissue structure and muscle function are well positioned to effectively manage most patellofemoral problems by improving the extensibility and mobility of tight structures and improving the timing of the elongated muscles. This will involve recognising the biomechanical factors contributing to the symptoms, adequately explaining to the patient the cause of the symptoms and teaching the patient how to manage the symptoms. Specific training of certain muscles with accurate feedback to change the timing of these muscles during functional and sporting activities will be required if this problem is not to recur. Copyright 2000 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.