Knee pain felt at the front of the knee, around the kneecap, is called anterior knee pain or patellofemoral pain syndrome.
It’s not always obvious why this pain develops, but it’s been linked to previous injuries, overuse of your knees, muscle weakness and your kneecap being slightly out of place.
The pain tends to be dull or aching and often affects both knees at the same time. It’s usually made worse by sitting for prolonged periods, squatting or kneeling, or using stairs.
You can normally treat this yourself using ordinary painkillers, an ice pack and rest. Exercises to strengthen the muscles around your kneecap can also help. You may be referred to a physiotherapist, who can advise you about specific exercises to try.
You can self-refer into community physiotherapy services. Simply call 0207 871 0545 to make an appointment. Your initial contact with one of our chartered physiotherapists may be over the phone, where you will either be given advice on appropriate treatment, or a face-to-face consultation will be arranged.
Should you wish to speak to your GP first, simply make an appointment with your local practice. If your GP refers you, one of our patient care advisers will contact you within 48 hours to arrange an appointment.
Photographs of Camden by Joe Hearsey
Camden MSK logo by Eloise Jones