Pain caused by the kneecap, medically known as the patella, is a challenge to treat with the best treatment approach still to be identified.
World and local authorities will converge in Brisbane next week to debate management of this very common problem at a national Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Association Conference.
“The kneecap is a relatively small bone but it can cause a huge amount of pain and discomfort," said Dr Bill Vicenzino. He is currently conducting a major clinical trial on knee pain at UQ`s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.
"Knee pain can stop people from enjoying playing sport or recreational activities and interfere with many daily tasks," he said.
"Simple things, like walking upstairs or even sitting for long periods of time can bring on this pain."
To highlight this important condition, the conference organisers have brought together for the first time respected experts including Professor Tom McPoil from the USA, Dr Kay Crossley (University of Melbourne), Peter Blanch (Australian Institute of Sport), and Dr Rebecca Mellor (The University of Queensland).
The 14th Biennial MPA (Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Association) Conference is being held at the Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre, South Brisbane from November 24 to 26, 2005. It has attracted more than 500 delegates.
For further information, contact Jane Buckley by phone 07 3365 4587 or email j.buckley@shrs.uq.edu.au.
