Question - Patellofemoral Syndrome and Calf Aching

I am experiencing calf muscle aching. Is this common with this particular complaint and can I still drive while wearing a knee brace?

Answer - Bart @ SII

Calf muscle aching associated with patellofemoral syndrome that I have seen in my patients is usually due to an altered gait pattern. Because of the knee pain, your body alters the way you walk - either with a limp or it changes the muscles that are working to try to reduce the knee pain. This can lead to overworking the calf and causing aching.

There could be other causes for your calf aching, but it is hard to say without an evaluation.

As far as wearing the knee brace, it depends on what type of brace it is, and if it restricts your motion. Most of the time a patellofemoral brace like a patella stabilizer won't restrict your motion and you can drive with it on. I would talk to your doctor about driving with the brace, and if in doubt, try driving in an empty parking lot and make sure that you can effectively operate the pedals without restrictions.

Hope this helps - comment back with other questions.