Evaluation of a Treatment Algorithm for Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patients with PFPS demonstrate quadriceps and hip musculature weakness, altered lower extremity (LE) kinematics, and decreased LE flexibility. Psychosocial factors have also been identified as an important factor in patients with PFPS. The authors hypothesize that an ordered approach addressing each of these impairments sequentially will result in greater improvement in PFPS symptoms. The results of the investigators pilot study assessing the feasibility of using a sequential approach showed a full randomized controlled trial is warranted, the authors now plan to proceed with a full trial. The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of a sequential approach in the treatment of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. Methods: Patients will be randomized to a sequential treatment approach using a PFPS treatment algorithm (PFPS Algorithm) designed by the authors or typical physical therapy care. Due to the constant evaluation necessary no blinding will be performed. Patients will attend therapy two times per week for six weeks. Pain, Anterior Knee Pain Scale (AKPS), and Global Rating of Change (GROC) will be measured at evaluation and discharge, 3 month follow-up and 6 month follow-up.