The effect of combined training (Hip abductor and external rotators strengthening+balance) on muscle strength and postural control in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome

Abstract

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a musculoskeletal disorder of the knee joint. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of combined exercise (hip abductor and external rotators strengthening + balance) on muscle strength and postural control in patients with PFPS. In this semi-experimental research, 20 men with PFPS who were accessible were selected purposively and were then randomly assigned to two groups, i.e. the experimental (10) and control (10) groups. The experimental group performed a training program for eight weeks. Muscle strength and postural control in the patients were measured through the handheld dynamometer, static balance (stork test) and dynamic balance (Y test), before and after the exercise. Repeated measures ANOVA were used to analyse the data with P≤0.05. The results indicated that the changes and interactions of all the variables were significant in the experimental group (P<0.05). The results also showed that the experimental group, compared with the control group, had a significant improvement in all the variables (P<0.05). With respect to the effectiveness of training on the improvement of muscle strength and postural control, the rehabilitation experts and therapists can use this research training protocol in the physical rehabilitation of PFPS. © 2018, DPTZK (Physical Education Pedagogues Association). All rights reserved.