American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

How does patellofemoral pain often present in terms of onset?

1. Sudden and intense

2. Slow in onset

3. Recurrent and intermittent

4. Acute after injury

The correct answer is: Slow in onset

Patellofemoral pain syndrome commonly presents with a slow onset rather than sudden, acute, or recurrent patterns. This gradual development is often characterized by discomfort around the kneecap, typically arising from overuse or biomechanical issues rather than a specific traumatic incident. Patients typically experience pain that worsens with activities like climbing stairs, sitting for prolonged periods, or after physical activities, which supports the notion of a chronic, rather than acute, presentation. This slow onset allows for the possibility of attributing the discomfort to repetitive strain or muscular imbalances over time, distinguishing it from other acute knee injuries that may occur suddenly following trauma. Understanding this pattern is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management of the condition.