Effectiveness of closed kinetic chain exercises verses open kinetic chain exercise on reducing pain, improving functional activity and muscle strength in patients with unilateral patellofemoral pain syndrome - comparative study

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition characterized by anterior knee pain, particularly during weightbearing

activities. Rehabilitation strategies often incorporate both open kinetic chain (OKC) and closed kinetic chain (CKC) exercises to address pain, improve function, and

enhance muscle strength. However, the comparative effectiveness of these two approaches remains underexplored in patients with unilateral PFPS. Study

aims to compare the effects of CKC exercises versus OKC exercises on pain reduction, functional activity, and quadriceps muscle strength in individuals

with unilateral PFPS. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 30 participants diagnosed with unilateral PFPS. Participants were randomly assigned

to either the CKC exercise group or the OKC exercise group for a 6-month intervention program. Outcome measures included pain assessment using the

(VAS), functional activity evaluated with the Lysholm knee scoring scale, and strength measured with a handheld dynamometer. Assessments

were performed at baseline and post-intervention