IMPACT OF RETRO-WALKING ON ELECTRO-PHYSIOLOGICAL, GAIT AND FUNCTIONAL PARAMETERS IN RUNNERS WITH PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN SYNDROME

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), commonly known as "runner’s knee," is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition that causes pain around or behind the patella, particularly during weight-bearing activities like running, squatting, and stair climbing. Despite its high occurrence among athletes, there is no universally accepted treatment, though strengthening exercises, especially for the quadriceps, have shown benefits. Recent studies suggest that retro-walking (backward walking) may reduce joint stress, improve quadriceps strength, and enhance knee function, but its long-term effects in runners with PFPS remain unexplored. This study aims to assess whether retro-walking, when added to conventional treatment, offers superior outcomes in terms of pain relief, muscle activation, range of motion, and functional performance compared to conventional treatment alone. If proven effective, this intervention could refine rehabilitation protocols, providing a cost-effective and innovative approach for athletes and physiotherapists. The research is guided by the hypothesis that retro-walking will lead to significant improvements in clinical and functional outcomes, while the null hypothesis assumes no significant difference between the two treatment methods. Through pain scales, gait analysis, EMG readings, and strength assessments, this study seeks to establish the role of retro-walking in PFPS rehabilitation.