Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) injuries and physiotherapy management:
What is MPFL?
The Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) is a vital ligament connecting the kneecap (patella) to the femur (thigh bone). It provides stability and helps track the patella in the femoral groove.
MPFL Injury/Insufficiency:
An MPFL injury occurs when the ligament is damaged or stretched, often due to:
- Trauma (direct blow to the knee)
- Patellar dislocation/subluxation
- Sports injuries (twisting, bending)
- Overuse or repetitive strain
- Weak quadriceps or hip muscles
Symptoms of MPFL Injury:
- Pain or tenderness on the inner aspect of the knee
- Instability or feeling of the kneecap shifting
- Swelling or bruising
- Difficulty walking, running, or climbing stairs
- Catching or grinding sensation in the knee
Physiotherapy Exercise Management:
J Mazumdar, Physiotherapist, specializes in MPFL injury rehabilitation. Physiotherapy goals include:
- Pain reduction and inflammation management
- Strengthening surrounding muscles (quadriceps, hamstrings, hip abductors)
- Improving patellar tracking and stability
- Enhancing proprioception and balance
- Gradual return to functional activities
Physiotherapy Exercises:
- Quadriceps strengthening (straight leg raises, leg press)
- Hamstring strengthening (leg curls, deadlifts)
- Hip abductor strengthening (side leg lifts, clamshell exercises)
- Patellar mobilization and tracking exercises
- Balance and proprioception training (single-leg squats, balance boards)
- Functional training (agility drills, stair climbing)
Treatment Phases:
- Acute phase (0-2 weeks): Pain management, inflammation reduction
- Sub-acute phase (2-6 weeks): Strengthening, mobilization, and balance exercises
- Functional phase (6-12 weeks): Gradual return to sports-specific activities
Conclusion:
MPFL injuries require prompt and effective physiotherapy management to ensure optimal recovery and prevent further complications. J Mazumdar’s expertise in MPFL rehabilitation helps patients regain strength, stability, and function.
Contact Information:
Pro Physiotherapy
8th Phase, JP Nagar, Bangalore
- MPFL injury
- Medial Patellofemoral Ligament
- Physiotherapy management
- J Mazumdar
- Patellar instability
- Knee pain
- Sports injuries
- Rehabilitation exercises