Effect of valgus control instruction exercises versus conventional treatment on pain, strength and function in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome -An experimental study

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a prevalent knee condition characterized by pain around or behind the patella, typically worsened by activities like squatting, running, or stair climbing that place stress on the knee. It affects a broad range of people, especially young, active individuals and athletes, with a higher prevalence in females due to factors such as greater quadriceps angle (Q angle) and dynamic valgus. PFPS is often caused by a misalignment in patellar tracking during knee movement, with biomechanical issues like weak lower extremity muscles, tightness in structures around the knee, and foot overpronation contributing to the condition.

Recent studies explore the impact of valgus control instruction (VCI) exercises, which aim to correct knee valgus by re-educating motor control. Exercise instructions can be categorized into internal focus (IF), which directs attention to body movements, and external focus (EF), which focuses on movement outcomes. EF instructions are thought to better facilitate motor learning by encouraging instinctive responses. VCI exercises show promise in improving knee alignment, particularly in comparison to conventional treatments, offering a potential benefit in managing PFPS.

A visual analog scale will be used to evaluate anterior knee pain in participants who meet the inclusion criteria. A dynamometer will be used to measure quadriceps, hip abductors, and external rotators strength, and an anterior knee pain scale will be used to evaluate function. Using the simple random sampling technique, the participants who meet the inclusion requirements will be divided into two groups. For six weeks, one group will receive traditional treatment three times a week, while the other group will receive exercises involving valgus control teaching three times a week.

All the three outcomes will be assessed after 6 weeks of intervention. Data will be collected and analyzed.