Improving Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial Investigating the Impact of Functional Stabilization Exercises on Pain Relief, Functionality, and Biomechanics of the Lower Extremity

Abstract

Background Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is a common musculoskeletal condition that affects many individuals. Hence our objective was to identify the effectiveness of functional stabilization exercises on pain relief, functionality, and biomechanics of the lower extremity in patients with PFP. Methods It was a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial that enrolled 60 participants diagnosed with PFP, randomly assigned to functional stabilization and conventional treatment group. Both groups received exercises for 8 weeks with 3 sessions on non-consecutive days of the week. Pain levels, functional performance, and lower extremity biomechanics were assessed. Results The mean age of the participants was 23.48± 4.89 in FST and 21.98±3.42 in the CT group, with improvements observed in all variables in both groups. However, more significant results were reported in the FST group with mean differences of 2.15±0.5, 6.75±3.88, 14.47±12.21, and 1.7±0.47 for pain, physical function, single-leg triple hop, and Q-angle respectively. Conclusion Functional stabilization exercises are an effective treatment option for patients with PFPS. It can significantly improve pain levels, functional performance, and lower extremity biomechanics in patients with PFPS. The findings of this study support the use of functional stabilization training as a treatment option for patients with PFPS. Keywords Exercise, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Pain, Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, Physical Function.