Recovery from patellofemoral pain can be a long process. Non-operative recovery usually takes six weeks or more. Sport activities that heavily load the knee should only be resumed very gradually and cautiously. To reach pre-injury activity level, the patient must build greater strength and flexibility in the muscles around the knee than existed before the injury. By maintaining a high level of fitness, the patient will reduce the likelihood of re-injury.

Operative Recovery

Recovery after surgery for patellofemoral pain syndrome can take even longer than recovery from non-operative treatment. The patient should expect:
  • Crutch use, usually necessary for one to three weeks after surgery

  • Two to three months of healing and rehabilitation

  • A gradual return to desired activities that usually take between three and six months.

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