A controlled trial of weight-bearing versus non-weight-bearing exercises for patellofemoral pain.
METHODS
Randomized controlled trial, pretest-posttest design.


OBJECTIVE
To compare the efficacy of non-weight-bearing single-joint quadriceps exercise (SJNWBE) versus weight-bearing multiple-joint quadriceps exercise (MJWBE) for individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).


BACKGROUND
PFPS is a common ailment of the knee. Both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing exercises are considered appropriate for strengthening the quadriceps, a key element in the treatment of this condition.


METHODS
Forty-five male subjects with PFPS between 18 and 35 years of age were randomized into 1 of 3 groups. Group 1 (SJNWBE) performed knee extension exercises, group 2 (MJWBE) performed seated leg press exercises, and group 3 (control group) received no treatment. Subjective symptoms, knee extensor muscle strength, and functional performance were evaluated at the time of the initial examination and at the end of the 6-week treatment period.


RESULTS
Individuals in both exercise groups demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in pain and an increase in muscle strength and functional performance, as compared to the control group (P<.05). All measures showed no significant differences in outcome between the 2 exercise groups (P>.05).


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates that both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing quadriceps exercises can significantly improve subjective and clinical outcomes in patients with PFPS.
Herrington
Lee
L
Centre for Rehabilitation and Human Performance Research, University of Salford, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom. I.c.herrington@salford.ac.uk
Al-Sherhi
Abdullah
A
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D053580:Muscle Strength / Q000502:physiology; D010147:Pain Measurement; D046788:Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011446:Prospective Studies; D052097:Quadriceps Muscle / Q000503:physiopathology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D016474:Weight-Bearing / Q000502:physiology*