Altered hip and trunk muscle function in individuals with patellofemoral pain
S M Cowan, K M Crossley, K L Bennell
This study looked at the neuromuscular control, strength and range of motion at the hip joint in patients with patellofemoral pain (PFP) syndrome.
The study used 37 participants in total, 10 with pfp and 27 pain-free individuals.
Electromyographic activity of the vasti muscles (quads) and the anterior and posterior gluteus medius (GM) were recorded using either surface electrodes or fine wire electrodes while the participant completed a stair-stepping task. Hip and trunk side flexion strength were assessed using a hand-held dynamometer. Hip range of motion was measured with an inclinometer. Pain and disability measures were recorded for the PFP participants. Results indicated that individuals in the PFP group had a delayed activation of gluteus medius. They also displayed delayed firing of vastus medialis oblique, compared with vastus lateralis and a decrease in trunk side flexion strength.
This study reiterates the importance of re-training both gluteus medius and VMO in patients with patellofemoral pain.
British Journal of Sports Medicine 2009;43:584-588
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
