Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Conditions
Keywords
Exercise Therapy, Genu Valgum
Brief summary
The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of a Functional Stabilization training program (FST) and a comprehensive corrective exercise program in PF pain and DKV.
Detailed description
PF pain impairs performance and quality of life and can predispose individuals to early PF osteoarthritis and Dynamic knee valgus has been identified as a modifiable risk factor for PF pain and serious knee injury . Current rehabilitation strategies show mixed results. Solo hip strengthening programs may not correct Dynamic knee valgus. While both Functional Stabilization training (FST) and comprehensive corrective programs (CCEP) show potential benefits, direct comparisons are lacking. The FST suggested superior outcomes with functional training, but it did not specifically target DKV. Conversely, the CCEP demonstrated kinematic improvements, but included asymptomatic participants and lacked patient reported outcomes. By directly comparing Functional Stabilization training (FST) with the CCEP, this study aims to provide clinicians with evidence based guidance on the most effective exercise strategy for improving lower limb kinematics and reducing pain. The findings could inform best practice guidelines and enhance outcomes.
Interventions
Supervised standard care exercise therapy for patellofemoral pain, delivered 3 sessions/week for 8 weeks (24 sessions), \~45-60 minutes/session.
Supervised functional stabilization/neuromuscular exercise program focusing on lower-limb alignment and movement control. 3 sessions/week for 8 weeks (24 sessions), \~45-60 minutes/session, progressive difficulty/load
Supervised comprehensive corrective exercise program targeting flexibility, strength, and neuromuscular control across the kinetic chain to address dynamic knee valgus. 3 sessions/week for 8 weeks (24 sessions), \~45-60 minutes/session, phase-based progression
Sponsors
Study design
Eligibility
Inclusion criteria
* Patellofemoral pain lasting \> 6 weeks * Demonstrates dynamic knee valgus during single-leg squat (FPPA ≥ 10°). * Arabic Kujala Patellofemoral Scale (KPS) score \< 80. * Age 18-35 years
Exclusion criteria
* Previous knee surgery; ligament/meniscus injury; or lower-limb fractures * Neurologic disorders. * Systemic inflammatory disease * Pregnancy.
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Knee Abduction (Valgus) Angle (3D motion analysis) | Baseline and 8 weeks | Change in peak knee abduction (valgus) angle of the stance limb measured using a 3D motion capture system (Vicon) during functional tasks (single-leg squat and drop/vertical jump landing). Lower values indicate reduced dynamic knee valgus. |
| Hip and Pelvis Kinematics (3D motion analysis) | Baseline and 8 weeks | Change in peak hip adduction, peak hip internal rotation, contralateral pelvic drop, and trunk lateral lean during the functional tasks measured by 3D motion capture. |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kujala Patellofemoral Scale (KPS) | Baseline and 8 weeks | Change in patient-reported knee function using the Arabic Kujala Patellofemoral Scale (0-100) |