Hoffa’s syndrome is not easily diagnosed, but there are some symptoms that may indicate the possibility of the condition. These symptoms include a persistent ache in the knee, sharp pain when straightening the leg, swelling of the kneecap and thigh, and difficulty walking. Pain in the knee may also be felt when moving the kneecap after a contraction of the quadriceps muscle. If you have any of these symptoms, you should seek medical treatment.