Blog & Resources

Relieving Patellofemoral Pain with SoftWave Therapy

Published October 15th, 2023 by Dr. Sam Camarata

Patellofemoral pain, often referred to as "runner's knee," is a common orthopedic condition characterized by pain around or behind the kneecap (patella). This condition can be debilitating, especially for individuals who enjoy an active lifestyle. While there are various treatment options available, SoftWave Therapy at Camarata Chiropractic & Wellness led by Dr Sam Camarata and his team has emerged as a superior choice for addressing patellofemoral pain.

Understanding Patellofemoral Pain:

The knee joint is a complex structure that involves the interaction between the femur (thigh bone) and the patella (kneecap). Patellofemoral pain typically occurs when the patella does not move smoothly within the femoral groove during knee flexion and extension. This irregular movement can lead to irritation and pain.

Common Causes and Symptoms:

Overuse or Excessive Strain:

Repetitive activities like running, squatting, or climbing stairs can lead to overuse of the knee joint, resulting in patellofemoral pain.

Muscular Imbalances:

Weakness or imbalances in the muscles surrounding the knee can affect the patella's alignment and movement.

Malalignment:

Structural issues, such as flat feet, high arches, or abnormal patellar tracking, can contribute to patellofemoral pain.

Trauma or Injury:

A direct blow to the kneecap or a fall can trigger patellofemoral pain.

Common symptoms of patellofemoral pain include:

Dull, aching pain around or under the kneecap, which is often exacerbated during activities.

Pain when ascending or descending stairs.

Grinding or popping sensations in the knee.

Swelling and discomfort after prolonged sitting.

Why SoftWave Therapy for Patellofemoral Pain:

While traditional treatments for patellofemoral pain include rest, physical therapy, bracing, and pain medication, these approaches may offer only temporary relief and fail to address the root causes. In contrast, SoftWave Therapy provides several benefits for individuals with this condition:

Pain Reduction:

SoftWave Therapy targets the source of pain by promoting tissue healing and flushing out trapped inflammation at the cellular level.

Muscle Activation:

The therapy stimulates the activation of the surrounding muscles, helping to correct muscular imbalances that may contribute to patellofemoral pain.

Improved Blood Flow:

SoftWave Therapy enhances blood flow and circulation to the affected area, accelerating the healing process.

Non-Invasive:

SoftWave Therapy is a non-invasive and outpatient procedure, eliminating the need for surgery or injections.

Long-Term Results:

By addressing the underlying causes of patellofemoral pain, SoftWave Therapy offers long-lasting relief and improved joint function.

The SoftWave Therapy Experience:

SoftWave Therapy sessions utilize electrohydraulic supersonic acoustic waves that are applied directly to the affected knee area, stimulating the body's natural healing response. Many patients report significant pain reduction and improved mobility after just a few sessions, with typical treatments scheduled weekly for 6-8 weeks on average.

Patellofemoral pain can be a challenging condition that affects individuals of all activity levels. While there are various treatment options available, SoftWave Therapy stands out as a superior choice due to its ability to provide lasting pain relief, promote tissue healing, and address the root causes of patellofemoral pain.

If you're experiencing persistent knee pain, give us a call 585-617-4145 to explore SoftWave Therapy as a non-invasive and effective solution for your patellofemoral pain.