Patellofemoral Stress Syndrome
Patellofemoral Stress Syndrome treatment by Empire Pain Management, Minimally Invasive Spine & Orthopedic Specialists. Call us today to make an appointment we serve patients across New York and New Jersey, including communities such as Plainview, Ronkonkoma, New Hyde Park, Montville, and Plainfield.
Patellofemoral Stress Syndrome Overview
Patellofemoral Stress Syndrome, also known as runner’s knee, is a common knee condition characterized by pain around or behind the kneecap (patella) that worsens with activities such as running, jumping, or climbing stairs. This syndrome typically results from overuse, muscle imbalances, poor biomechanics, or structural issues such as malalignment of the patella within the femoral groove. At Empire Orthopaedic and Pain Management Specialists, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of patellofemoral stress syndrome, offering comprehensive care to alleviate symptoms and improve knee function. When you experience patellofemoral stress syndrome, it can significantly impact your ability to engage in physical activities and may lead to decreased performance and quality of life. Our team of orthopedic specialists begins the evaluation process with a thorough assessment of your medical history, followed by a physical examination and may utilize imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess the alignment of the patella and identify any contributing factors.
Treatment options for Patellofemoral Stress Syndrome may include:
- Activity modification: We may recommend temporary cessation or modification of activities that exacerbate symptoms, such as running or jumping, to allow the knee to rest and heal.
- Physical therapy: Our experienced physical therapists design specialized rehabilitation programs focused on strengthening the muscles around the knee, improving flexibility, correcting biomechanical abnormalities, and enhancing patellar tracking to alleviate pain and prevent recurrence of symptoms.
- Orthotics: We offer custom orthotic devices or shoe inserts to provide support and stability to the foot and correct biomechanical issues that contribute to patellofemoral stress syndrome.
- Bracing: We may prescribe a knee brace or patellar stabilizing brace to reduce excessive movement of the patella and alleviate pressure on the knee joint during activities.
- Taping: We utilize techniques such as patellar taping or kinesiology taping to support the patella and improve its alignment within the femoral groove, reducing pain and improving knee function.
- Minimally invasive procedures: In cases of persistent or severe symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatments, we may offer minimally invasive procedures such as ultrasound-guided injections or percutaneous needle tenotomy to provide targeted pain relief and promote healing.
Meet Our Team Of Doctors

Dr. James Yu
Board Certified Anesthesiologist
Board Certified Interventional
Pain Management Physician

Dylan J. O'Rourke
Certified Physician Assistant
Pain Condition We Treat
Improve your quality of life with our comprehensive approach to pain management
We are dedicated to finding individualized treatment options tailored to fit your needs. Our team is dedicated to helping you lead a productive and active life, free from pain and disruption.
We use an integrative approach to conduct a comprehensive evaluation and assess your condition.
Physical examination and review of your medical history. We assess the cause of your pain, determine its severity and duration, and help you develop an individualized treatment plan.
We provide a range of treatments and procedures to address your chronic pain. These include nerve blocks, injections, physical therapy, implantable therapies and more. We also offer health education to help you better manage your condition.





