Two Modes of Weight Training Programs and Patellar Stabilization

Abstract

AbstractContext:Underconditioned patellar stabilizing muscles could be a predisposing factor for patellar instability.Objective:To examine the effect of 2 modes of weight training on the size of the vastus medialis obliquus (VMO), the resting position and passive mobility of the patella, and the strength of the knee extensor muscles.Design:Prospective intervention, repeated measures in 3 groups.Setting:Orthopaedic and sports sciences research laboratory.Patients or Other Participants:48 healthy adults free from back and lower extremity injuries.Intervention(s):Participants were randomly assigned to muscle hypertrophy training, muscle strength training, or the control group. Those in the training groups pursued training 3 times per week for 8 weeks.Main Outcome Measure(s):Magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound cross-sectional area of the VMO, patellar tilt angle on magnetic resonance imaging, instrumented passive patellar mobility, and isometric knee extension torque of the dominant leg.Results:Participants in both training groups had comparable gains in VMO size, passive patellar stability, and knee extension force, all of which were greater than for the control group (P < .05).Conclusions:Both short-term muscle hypertrophy and strength training programs can reinforce the patellar stabilizers in previously untrained volunteers.