Does patella taping alter the degree of knee motion during functional tasks in individuals with anterior knee pain?

Kinematic analysis of the knee joint of individuals with Patellofemoral pain syndrome using 3D analysis software ( KneeKG infrared tracking device (Emovi Medical) while performing 3 functional activities - walking, step down and single leg squat, at Baseline (untaped) with Dynamic Taping (Intervention A) and with Rigid tape (Intervention B). Each taping application will be specific to the individuals requirements. Baseline measure- following application of the exoskeleton harness, a habitulisation period of 2 minutes walking on the treadmill (to acclimitise to the harness placement and the treadmill walking action) and calibration of the knee KG system(which takes about 5 minutes maximum and requires the individual to move their leg in a variety of directions) the individual will be analysed performing the following 3 tasks. 1. walking at a comfortable speed on a treadmill for 45 seconds. 2 tests were completed 2. stepping down from a 20cm block with unharnessed leg to floor and returning repeatedly for 15 seconds and a slow and steady pace. 2 repeat tests carried out 3. Single leg squats for 15 seconds. 2 tests also. The intervention order will predetermined by the participation number and was randomly generated using a computer program That taping technique was then applied by the assessor. Intervention A Involves the application of Dynamic tape(TM) which is a new concept sports tape composed of synthetic stretch nylon and lycra cloth with a choice of 4 techniques deemed appropriate for the individuals requirements depending on their biomechanics, neuromuscular deficiencies and patella alignment. Once the 1st Intervention (A or B) has completed the individual can either remove the tape immediately or keep it on and remove it 12 hrs prior to the 2nd testing session Intervention B will be the application of rigid sports tape which has a Rayon construction with rubber zinc oxide adhesive material. This will be used in combination with hypoallergenic tape as an underlay, such as Fixomull.. The application is based on the McConnell Taping principle where the patella is repositioned and held by the tape. It will include medial glide, medial tilt and medial rotation as required for the participants presentation. The 3 functional tasks as performed in the baseline measure were repeated immediately and then again on another day with a minumum of 12 hour washout period between the interventions Testing occurs in the Physiotherapy Department at Prince of Wales Hospital and is carried out by the principal investigator who has 20 + yrs experience as a musculoskeletal physiotherapist. Once the 1st Intervention (A or B) has been completed the individual can either remove the tape immediately or keep it on and remove it a minumum of 12 hrs prior to the 2nd testing session.