WHAT IS IT? FAT PAD IMPINGEMENT
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Fad pad impingement occurs when the infrapatellar of the knee becomes irritated or impinged.
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The fat pad is well innervated, and therefore a sensitive structure
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The infrapatellar fat pad lies beneath the patellar tendon, behind the patella, and in front of the distal end of the femur.
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Also known as ‘Hoffa’s disease’
Signs and symptoms
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Pain below the patella
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Tenderness on squeezing either side of the patellar tendon
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Patella is tilted inferiorly
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WHAT CAUSES IT?​
- Excessive hyperextension of the knees in standing
- Increased anterior pelvic tilt
- Repeated hyper extension of the knee
HOW TO SELF MANAGE
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R.I.C.E. protocol
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Monitor stance and sporting technique to see if hyperextension is a contributing factor
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Improve your posture and core stability with a Pilates program
PROGNOSIS
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Conservative management should be enough to manage mild to moderate arthritis
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Once pain becomes constant and severe, and life activities are significantly impeded then specialist intervention may be required
HOW PHYSIO HELPS?
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Assess your knee to confirm that the fat pad is impinged
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Assess the patella for inferior tilt
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Trial taping technique to offload the irritated fat pad
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Correct postural contributing factors (lumbar lordosis, pelvis tilt, degree of hyperextension in standing and in sport)
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Assess and correct muscular imbalances
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