Runner’s knee, or patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), is a common condition that causes pain at the front of the knee, often around or behind the kneecap. Although the patellofemoral joint is designed to handle high levels of force, issues arise when the load placed on the knee exceeds what it can currently tolerate. The first step in managing PFPS is load management — that means temporarily reducing or modifying the activities that aggravate your symptoms, giving the knee a chance to recover.