Anterior Knee Pain

Tom Eather

Senior Physiotherapist and Clinical Educator

Physio Bio

Anterior Knee Pain: Fat Pad vs Patellofemoral Joint vs Patellar Tendon

Pain at the front of the knee is a common complaint we see here in the clinic. The knee is an intricate joint and there are a number of potential irritable structures which can make an accurate diagnosis difficult. The main ‘players’ in the anterior knee pain are the patellofemoral joint, the patellar tendon, and the infrapatellar (below the kneecap) fat pad. In order to get an accurate diagnosis, a thorough history is taken and the behaviour and location of the pain guides assessment and eventual diagnosis. Below is a brief overview of the differentiating factors:

	PFJ	Patellar Tendon	Fat Pad
Aggravating Factors	Stairs, squats, lunges, downhill walking, kneeling	Jumping, sprinting, running, lunges, squats	Standing in extension, flat shoes, ‘hanging off knee’
Easing/Non-aggravating Factors	Posterior chain gym work, reducing overall daily walking load	Swimming, non-impact training, tempo quad based strength work	Walking up hill, wearing heels, standing in knee flexion, sitting, squats/lunges
Pain Location	Diffuse anterior knee	Pinpoint tendon pain	Localised to fat pad

As you can see, anterior knee pain can be quite complex as the knee is an intricate structure (and these are only the common complaints – there are plenty more!). Accurate diagnosis is incredibly important as treatment for each issue will differ significantly. If you’re dealing with anterior knee pain, come into the clinic for an accurate assessment and diagnosis, targeted treatment and a tailored rehab plan for your given injury.

Why Book A Session at BeFit?

At BeFit Training Physio we love to support the active and sporting communities in Double Bay and the surrounding Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. Our physiotherapists work with a range of athletes from different sports to help them optimise performance and recover from injuries, strains, or more complex issues.

Do I need a referral?

No, a referral is not necessary to see a physiotherapist in Sydney. You may simply ‘turn up’.

How soon can I see a physio?

We do get busy, but can generally squeeze you in within a 24 hour period. If you have a particular time frame that you prefer, it is best to book in advance. You can BOOK ONLINE via our online booking system

What should I expect from my first consultation?

At BeFit Training Physiotherapy you can expect:
– A 45 minute initial consultation
– Always in a private, 1 on 1 environment, giving you exclusive access to the injury expert.
– A thorough assessment and physical exam
– We listen to you.
– An accurate diagnosis – this is key and our point of difference.
– Plenty of ‘hands on’ or manual treatment
– A home exercise program that will continually be progressed
– Continued evaluation of work (is this treatment technique working for you?)
– Continued communication with your referrer, trainer or doctor
– Direct referral for necessary investigations, &
– Direct referral to Doctors, Surgeons, and members of the allied health team, as required.
At BeFit Training Physiotherapy, we aim to:

– Provide you with an accurate diagnosis
– Explain the issue in detail, and look at all causes
– Treat you as a person
– Tell you how to help yourself
– Explain the role of physiotherapy
– Treat the cause of your problem,
– Tell you how long recovery will take
– Meet all your goals, with respect to time and result, through the use of evidence based and clinically proven manual therapy techniques and exercise prescription
– Maintain communication
– Deliver a service to you that is on time
– Ensure you receive an appointment within 24 hours
– Provide excellent customer service and a great experience

What do I need to bring?

Yourself and if you have any letters, results or reports bring those along with you.

CAN I CLAIM A REBATE FROM MY HEALTH FUND?

Yes, a facility is available on site, so you claim your rebate immediately, on the spot.

FEES

Click here to view our fees