Pyschologically Informed Interventions for Patellofemoral Pain

Description

In this presentation, Benjamin Smith shares insights on patellofemoral pain and advocates for psychological-informed interventions to be prioritized in research. He begins by defining patellofemoral pain as discomfort surrounding the kneecap, particularly during activities that load the joint, and highlights its prevalence among young adults. Smith emphasizes the burden of this condition, noting that a significant percentage of affected individuals cease athletic activities, and the levels of pain and disability are comparable to those suffering from knee osteoarthritis.



He critiques the current biomedical model of treatment which predominantly focuses on structural issues despite evidence suggesting poor long-term outcomes for patients. During his research, he interviewed individuals suffering from patellofemoral pain, revealing that many feel confusion and frustration regarding their condition, often leading to fear of movement or activity due to misunderstanding pain signals.



Smith discusses psychological factors such as fear-avoidance beliefs and kinesiophobia, underlining their prevalence among patients and their impact on treatment outcomes. He argues for a shift towards psychological approaches in treating patellofemoral pain, asserting that understanding the psychological dimensions of pain could enhance recovery and improve the quality of life for sufferers. Ultimately, he presents a novel intervention—a cognitively-informed approach—guided by patient feedback, indicating that empowering patients through education and mindset change may facilitate better management of their condition.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-240871

Specialties