Using patellofemoral braces for anterior knee pain.

Disorders of the patellofemoral joint are common in recreational and competitive athletes. The pathophysiology of these disorders is unclear but may be related to malalignment of the patella and femoral trochlea, which may produce the characteristic anterior knee symptoms (1). Diagnosing and treating patellofemoral pain syndrome is challenging but important, since patellofemoral abnormalities can result in substantial discomfort and disability.