Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) remains one of the most common—and frustrating—conditions clinicians treat. On this episode University Orthopedics PT Podcast, host Dan Bien sits down with University of Connecticut’s Neal Glaviano, PhD, ATC, to unpack the science, challenge outdated assumptions, and clarify what actually works in rehab.
From biomechanics and motor control to bracing, BFR, and exercise selection, this conversation delivers practical insights grounded in research.
Listen to the full episode of the PT Podcast with Dan Bien featuring Dr. Neal Glaviano to dive deeper into evidence-based strategies for managing patellofemoral pain.
Timecodes:
1:03 – Dr. Neal Glaviano Bio
3:12 – Pain Generator in Patellofemoral Pain
• Patellofemoral contact area & joint stress
• Subchondral bone involvement
5:56 – “Chicken or Egg?” Quad vs. Glute Inhibition
• Pain-driven inhibition vs. altered biomechanics
• Population differences (military data)
• Quad strength as a risk factor
• Hip strength considerations
9:07 – Gender Differences in PF Pain
• Higher prevalence in females
• Subgroups
• Individual variability
11:44 – Motor Pattern Compensations
• Multi-planar deviations
• Dynamic knee valgus
• Fear avoidance & motor strategies
15:12 – Motor Control & Retraining
19:45 – Risk Factors & Susceptibility
20:52 – Intervention Strategies: Quad & Glute Strengthening
• Why clamshells aren’t the solution
• VMO isolation myths
• Gluteus medius focus
• Gluteus maximus (tri-planar loading)
26:10 – Orthotics
27:00 – Patellar Bracing & Taping
• Lateral J brace
• Symptom control & proprioception
29:49 – Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) in PF Rehab
33:00 – Exercise Selection
• Open vs. closed chain
• Pain monitoring (VAS)
• Strength & power-based progressions
36:00 – NMES for Patellofemoral Pain
• Quad NMES
• Glute NMES
40:06 – Motor Retraining
• Scaling
• Retention
41:07 – Closed Chain Loading Guidelines
• Framework & modifications
44:24 – Research Gaps in Patellofemoral Pain
47:40 – Upcoming Professional Projects
About Dan Bien
Dan Bien is a physical therapist at our Kettle Point Campus in East Providence. Dan has worked at University Orthopedics since 2006 and serves as the Coordinator of Clinical Education for the physical therapy department.
Dan is currently recognized as an Orthopedic Certified Specialist by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and a Credentialed Clinical Instructor by the American Physical Therapy Association.