Treatment of Infrapatellar Fat Pad Impingement Syndrome with Anterior Knee Pain

Infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) impingement syndrome presents as anterior knee pain driven by fat pad restrictions or adhesions. These restrictions are common after knee surgery but are also seen in nonsurgical patients. Addressing fat pad and patellar mobility is the focus of structured management.

Clinical Scenario

Patients with IFP adhesions commonly report anterior knee pain during flexion and extension of the knee joint. The clinical targets are resolution of anterior knee pain and restoration of infrapatellar fat pad mobility.

Treatment Approach — Partial Overview

The structured regimen centres on manual mobilisation of the infrapatellar fat pad and the patella, combined with targeted stretching of specific muscle groups. The complete sequence, progression, and parameters are available in the full protocol.

Instant Access to Structured Evidence-Based Regimens

References

DOI: 10.1177/1941738115611413

Treatment of the postsurgical knee should include infrapatellar fat pad and patellar mobilizations.
Fat pad restrictions are common following knee surgery but can be seen in nonsurgical patients with anterior knee pain as well.
Stretching the quadriceps and anterior hip structures may improve symptoms of IFP restrictions.
Patients with IFP adhesions often complain of anterior knee pain during flexion and extension of the knee joint.

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