Patellofemoral disorders are most often treated following a conservative approach. Physicians recommend resting the knee and using a brace or arch support to reduce pressure on the joint. Regularly icing the knee and overt-the-counter pain medication help alleviate discomfort and swelling.
During this recovery period, individuals should consider modifying their activities to include knee-friendly exercises like cycling or swimming and avoid strenuous activities known to cause pain, such as climbing, squatting, or kneeling. Shoe inserts known as orthotics can help adequately align and stabilize the foot and ankle.
Most patellofemoral disorders respond well to non-surgical treatment. However, surgery may be required to address the underlying issue when the damage is more extensive. Surgery options include arthroscopic and open surgery, depending on the type and extent of the injury.
Patients that undergo arthroscopic surgery can usually return home on the same day as their operation and begin focusing on their recovery. In contrast, patients that underwent open surgery have more extensive post-operative trauma that may require them to spend 1-2 days in clinical recovery before being discharged.