Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) affects one out of every four active individuals, making it one of the most common knee problems among athletes and military recruits. What causes this problem? Well, it can be fairly complex. Usually there isn't just one reason why people develop PFPS.

Knee pain is a very common problem in athletes who run, jump, and/or participate in sports that require these movements. Many athletes develop a problem called patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) as a result. This painful knee problem can be chronic and prevent full participation in sports activities because of the pain. Anything that requires knee flexion (squatting or bending) seems to be particularly problematic.

The meniscus is one of two types of cartilage in the knee that helps stabilize, protect, and improve knee function. The second type of cartilage is called articular cartilage. The articular cartilage is right next to the joint surface. It provides a smooth surface for movement of the bones against each other.

The verdict is in on the subject of meniscectomy (removal of the meniscus) -- don't do it unless it's absolutely necessary. And sometimes there is no way around it. But whenever possible, surgeons repair the damage and save as much of the natural meniscus (knee cartilage) as possible.

The verdict is in on the subject of meniscectomy (removal of the meniscus) -- don't do it unless it's absolutely necessary. And sometimes there is no way around it. But whenever possible, surgeons repair the damage and save as much of the natural meniscus (knee cartilage) as possible.

Six risk factors for patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) in young athletes have been identified in this study. Some of them are modifiable, which means they can be changed. And that means this painful knee condition may possibly be prevented. That's good news since PFPS is one of the most common painful and chronic knee problems faced by military recruits and athletes elsewhere.

Steroid injection into the knee is a well-known effective short-term method of getting control of disabling pain and quickly improving function. Since the effects wear off after seven to 10 days, it's not meant for long-term pain control. But it can help a person get on a pain control program with follow-up using nonsteroidal antiinflammatories (NSAIDs) and analgesics (pain relievers like Tylenol).

Research has shown that corticosteroids injected into the joint work for reducing knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. But the pain reducing effect only lasts about one week. Steroid injections offer short-term pain relief but they aren't advised for more than that.

Research has shown that corticosteroids injected into the joint work for reducing knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. But how long does the effect last? Osteoarthritis is a chronic problem, so long-term solutions are needed. Just how well do steroid injections work? According to the results of this study: the pain reducing effect lasts about one week. Steroid injections offer short-term pain relief but they aren't advised for more than that.

Statistical data on orthopedic surgeries performed in the U.S. show that anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common. The number of ACL surgeries is on the rise and not because there are more surgeons around to do the surgery or because there are more people in general (as measured by the U.S. census). More people are active and involved in sports and activities that can lead to trauma and knee injuries.