The effect of lumbopelvic manipulation on electromyography parameters of gluteus medius and vastus medialis in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome: A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Abstract

Background

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is the most common cause of anterior knee pain, especially in active young people. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of lumbopelvic manipulation on electromyography parameters of gluteus medius and vastus medialis in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Methods

In this double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial study, 26 patients with a diagnosis of patellofemoral pain syndrome were randomly divided into two groups. The first group received Lumbopelvic manipulation and the second group was a control group that received placebo manipulation. Electromyography activity of vastus medialis and gluteus medius muscles were evaluated as primary outcomes during the single-leg squat; pain intensity during rest and functional tasks (step up, step down, single leg squat) were assessed by numerical pain rating scale. Functional status was evaluated by step-down test and the score of the Kujala patellofemoral questionnaire, as secondary outcomes. All evaluations were performed before and after the intervention, except pain intensity at rest and the Kujala patellofemoral questionnaire that were assessed before the intervention and one week after.

Result

In both groups, no significant difference was observed before and after the intervention in terms of average amplitude and the onset of gluteus medius and vastus medialis. However, in the lumbopelvic manipulation group, pain intensity during rest and functional tests significantly decreased compared to the control group. Functional status significantly improved in the lumbopelvic manipulation group, with no significant difference between group comparisons.

Conclusion

Lumbopelvic manipulation caused a reduction in pain intensity and improvement of functional status in the rehabilitation of patients with patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. However, it seems that this method could not change the EMG activity of muscles in these patients.

Implications for practice

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  The results of present study can help physiotherapists to understand the possible underlying pathomechanics of patellofemoral pain syndrome and more effective treatment of these group of patients.