Exercises Patellofemoral pain syndrome

there consistent low quality evidence exercise therapy pfps reduces pain, improves function , aids long-term recovery. however, there insufficient evidence compare effectiveness of different types of exercises each other, , exercises other forms of treatment.

exercise therapy recommended first line treatment of pfps. various exercises have been studied , recommended. exercises described according 3 parameters:

type of muscle activity (concentric, eccentric or isometric)
type of joint movement (dynamic, isometric or static)
reaction forces (closed or open kinetic chain)

the majority of exercise programs intended treat pfps designed strengthen quadriceps muscles. quadriceps strengthening considered gold standard treatment pfps. quadriceps strengthening commonly suggested because quadriceps muscles stabilize patella. quadriceps weakness , muscle imbalance may contribute abnormal patellar tracking.

if strength of vastus medialis muscle inadequate, larger , stronger vastus lateralis muscle pull sideways (laterally) on kneecap. strengthening vastus medialis prevent or counter lateral force of vastus lateralis 1 way of relieving pfps. moderate evidence supports addition of hip abductor , external rotator strengthening, exercises targeting hip flexion , hip extension.

emphasis during exercise may placed on coordinated contraction of medial , lateral parts of quadriceps of hip adductor, hip abductor , gluteal muscles. many exercise programs include stretches designed improve lower limb flexibility. electromyographic biofeedback allows visualization of specific muscle contractions , may individuals performing exercises target intended muscles during exercise. electrostimulation may used apply external stimuli resulting in contraction of specific muscles , exercise.

inflexibility has been cited source of patellofemoral pain syndrome. stretching of laterial knee has been suggested help.