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Background: Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is common and has a poor long-term prognosis. There is a lack of clarity about the clinical reasoning of recognised inter-disciplinary experts in the published literature., Objectives: To help identify best practice by exploring the clinical reasoning of a range of inter-disciplinary experts that regularly diagnose and treat PFP., Design: Qualitative study with semi-structured interviews., Method: Recruitment resulted in a convenience sample for semi-structured interview, which were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed until theoretical saturation, as determined by multiple investigators., Findings: Interviews with 19 clinical experts (15 men, 4 women; mean experience 18.6 years ± 8.6) from four broad professions yielded four themes. Firstly, the assessment and diagnosis process should include a thorough history and examination to rule in PFP. Secondly, information provision should aim to increase patients' understanding, aid in controlling symptoms, and facilitate behaviour change. Thirdly, active rehabilitation, which was a salient theme and included advocacy of combined hip and knee exercise that is adapted to the individual. Finally, treatment adjuncts, which can be used selectively to modify symptoms, may include running retraining, taping, or foot orthoses., Conclusions: PFP should be diagnosed clinically, and tailored treatment programmes should be prescribed for people with PFP. Exercise was considered the most effective treatment and underlying psychological factors should be addressed to improve prognosis., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is common and long-term treatment outcomes are unsatisfactory. Qualitative exploration of diagnosis and management from the perspective of people with PFP is lacking., Objectives: To inform care and improve intervention delivery by exploring the experience of people with PFP regarding diagnosis and management., Design: Qualitative study with semi-structured interviews., Method: Online recruiting yielded a convenience sample of participants with PFP for semi-structured interview. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using thematic analysis until theoretical saturation by multiple investigators to determine themes and sub-themes., Results: 12 participants were interviewed, with three themes identified; the value of diagnosis, the need for tailored (individualised) care, and the role of education. Participants viewed receiving a diagnosis as essential to guide management, yet one was rarely provided, causing uncertainty about pain mechanisms; "it's nice to be told what it is that's wrong". Interventions needed to be tailored to the individual as not all participants responded in the same way to treatment(s) or had the same needs; "everyone copes and reacts differently". Finally, participants viewed education as essential to empower them to understand and manage the condition; "if I'd have been given more information, I think I'd know how to deal with it more"., Conclusions: The overarching narrative from three themes was a desire for clearly communicated personalised care that meets individual needs. People with PFP desire a diagnosis to explain their pain, tailored interventions, and appropriate education to optimise their experience and outcomes., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)