This research study aims to compare the effectiveness of two different exercise approaches in treating Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) in basketball players. It employs a randomized clinical trial with 32 participants aged 18-40 diagnosed with PFPS. The participants are divided into two groups: Isolated Strengthening Exercises (ISE) and Combined Strengthening Exercises (CSE). The ISE group focuses solely on quadriceps strengthening exercises, while the CSE group incorporates both quadriceps and proximal strengthening exercises for the hip and core muscles. Outcome measures include pain levels, functionality, and physical performance assessments recorded at baseline and after 6 weeks. Statistical analysis using independent t-tests in SPSS will determine which approach is more effective. This study seeks to provide evidence on whether the combination of proximal strengthening exercises enhances the reduction of pain and improvement in functionality for basketball players with PFPS, compared to isolated strengthening exercises alone.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a common knee condition that affects basketball players and can lead to significant pain and functional limitations. The syndrome involves pain around or behind the patella (kneecap) due to malalignment and abnormal tracking of the patella within the femoral groove. Isolated strengthening exercises targeting the quadriceps have been widely recommended as a treatment approach for PFPS. However, recent research suggests that incorporating proximal strengthening exercises, focusing on the hip and core muscles, may enhance treatment outcomes. This study aims to investigate the comparative effectiveness of isolated strengthening exercises alone versus combined with proximal strengthening exercises in reducing pain and improving functionality in basketball players with PFPS. This research will employ a randomized clinical trial design to assess the impact of different strengthening exercise protocols on pain and functionality among basketball players diagnosed with PFPS. A sample of 32 basketball players aged 18-40 years, diagnosed with PFPS by a qualified orthopedic specialist and physiotherapists will be recruited for the study. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: The Isolated Strengthening Exercises (ISE) group and the Combined Strengthening Exercises (CSE) group, which includes both isolated and proximal strengthening exercises. The ISE group will follow a structured program consisting of isolated strengthening exercises targeting the quadriceps, focusing on exercises such as leg extensions, squats, and lunges. The CSE group will perform the same isolated strengthening exercises but with the addition of proximal strengthening exercises for the hip and core muscles, including exercises such as hip abduction, clamshells, and planks. Outcome measures, including pain levels using NPRS, functionality using the KOOS-PF, Step-down test, single leg squat Hop test, and range of motion assessments, will be recorded at baseline after 6 weeks. Statistical analysis, including independent t-tests, will be performed to compare the outcomes between the ISE and CSE groups using SPSS version 26.0.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
32
Isolated strengthening exercises can be beneficial for individuals with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) to help address muscle imbalances and alleviate pain.
Combined strengthening exercises for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) typically include a mix of quadriceps strengthening exercises, hip strengthening exercises, and core stability exercises. The goal is to address muscle imbalances and improve the overall stability of the knee joint.
Physio wellness centre
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan
RECRUITINGNumeric pain rating scale
The Numeric pain rating scale is a self-reported, or clinician-administered, measurement tool consisting of a numerical point scale with extreme anchors of no pain to extreme pain. The scale is typically set up on a horizontal or vertical line, ranges most commonly from 0-10 or 0-100, and can be administered in written or verbal form. The 0 on scale shows no pain, 1-4 shows mild pain, 5 and 6 shows moderate pain and 7-10 shows severe pain.
Time frame: 6 weeks
Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis outcome score for Patellofemoral injury
Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Patellofemoral is one subjective type of questionnaire developed as an extension with the aim of estimating the immediate and long-term symptoms and function among people with Patellofemoral pain syndrome. Higher scores show pain severity whereas lower score shows mild or no pain.
Time frame: 6 weeks
Single-legged hop tests
Single-legged hop tests are functional tests that have been used to identify individuals who can regain dynamic knee stability after an ACL injury.
Time frame: 6 weeks
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