138 | Patellar Tracking: Is Your Kneecap Sliding Out of Alignment?

The Optimal Body

Is your pain caused by your misaligned kneecap? Wondering if it matters that your patella appears misaligned? Unsure if you have patella tracking? Let’s take a deep dive into patella (kneecap) tracking! Firstly, DocJen & Dr.Dom explains patellofemoral syndrome and how it may relate to patella tracking, providing insight into why physical therapists may focus on the appearance of structures as a guide to diagnosing. They discuss if taping or manual therapy actually puts the kneecap back into alignment, the extent to which the appearance of structure actually matters, and the anatomy and physiology surrounding the patella. They provide insight into how symptoms can rise with patella tracking, how to begin addressing your patella tracking, and how to focus on function over appearance. Finally, they address the VMO muscle and explain how it integrates with the rehabilitation of patella tracking-related issues. Let’s tune in!

We also mention the GeniusMobility Supplement (affiliate link) in this episode. In this Genius x DocJen collaboration, the supplement contains all-natural ingredients with superfoods known to have joint supportive, stress balancing, and anti-inflammatory effects based on scientific research. With one scoop containing the recommended daily dose of Ashwagandha, Nuclear Eggshell Membrane, Antioxidant-Rich Fruits, Vitamin D & K2, and Curcumin, you will be on your way to replenished and optimally functioning joints! Dose your joints with the nutrients it needs to soothe pain and move with ease.

What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl:

2:29 – What is Patellofemoral Syndrome (Check out Episode 10 to learn more)

3:14 – Why physical therapists look at the structure of the body

5:29 – Does tape fix patella tracking

9:08 – How the patella tracks

9:47 – Does DocJen have pain with her patellar tracking

10:52 – To what degree do biomechanics and structural form matter?

12:07 – What about patella tracking would be causing you pain?

15:42 – Is it bad if the kneecap is not tracking perfectly

17:38 – Changes to feel something different at the knee

18:00 – What is the VMO muscle & should you train it for patella tracking?

21:02 – Is taping pulling your kneecap back in space?

23:43 – What do manual techniques help with

25:21 – What you need to do to optimize your rehabilitation journey

27:18 – How to start addressing your patella-tracking

30:28 – How The Optimal Body Membership can help!

34:21 – Dr. Dom’s Takeaway

To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/

For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://www.docjenfit.com/podcast/episode138/

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