In this masterclass, Claire Robertson, a consultant physiotherapist and researcher specializing in patellofemoral pain, discusses the complexities of adolescent patellofemoral pain (PFP). She highlights that up to 28.9% of adolescents experience this condition, which is often misperceived as self-limiting. Claire emphasizes the importance of understanding the anatomical and psychological differences between adolescents and adults when it comes to PFP. She introduces various factors contributing to PFP, including morphological abnormalities, pain and kinesiophobia, and how they affect the patellofemoral joint’s stability. Claire underscores the need for comprehensive assessments that consider both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, such as training load and psychosocial stressors, which can exacerbate the condition.

Claire also outlines effective management strategies for adolescent PFP, focusing on load management and the importance of educating both patients and parents. She shares insights from recent studies, noting the significance of addressing kinesiophobia and employing cognitive interventions alongside physical treatment. Through case studies, Claire illustrates the practical application of these strategies, emphasizing the importance of identifying and modifying risk factors, improving movement patterns, and ensuring proper load management. She concludes by encouraging physiotherapists to remain vigilant for other pathologies that might mimic PFP and to consider the unique challenges adolescents face, aiming to create more effective and tailored treatment plans.

Claire Robertson qualified in 1994 with a BSc(hons) Physiotherapy. She has since obtained her MSc Physiotherapy, in 2003, and PGCE in 2006. Claire has worked in the NHS, academia and private practice, and currently runs a specialist patellofemoral clinic at Wimbledon Clinics. She is also the physiotherapist for the Warren Smith ski academy. Claire has lectured internationally and has many research papers and editorials published in internationally peer-reviewed journals.