This paper concluded that strengthening the muscles in the front of the leg (quadriceps) helps people with pain in the front of the knee and around the kneecap (patellofemoral syndrome). ~ Dr. Broussard
Effects of Physical Therapist—Guided Quadriceps-Strengthening Exercises for the Treatment of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy > Volume 44, Issue 6 >
Authors: Laura Kooiker, PT, MSc
Study Design
Systematic literature review.
Objective
To summarize the evidence for physical therapist–guided quadriceps-strengthening exercises as a treatment for patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Background
Although quadriceps strengthening is often included in the plan of care for patellofemoral pain syndrome, a systematic review published in 2003 found only limited evidence that exercise was more effective than no exercise for this common condition.
Methods
The PubMed, Embase/MEDLINE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, from inception to January 9, 2014, were searched for randomized controlled trials comparing the use of quadriceps-strengthening exercises to interventions consisting of advice/information or a placebo. Outcomes of interest were pain measures and function, as measured with self-report questionnaires. The methodological quality of the randomized controlled trials was assessed with the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. Results were summarized using a best-evidence synthesis and graphically illustrated using forest plots without meta-analysis.
Results
Seven studies were included in the literature review. These studies reported strong evidence that isolated quadriceps strengthening is more effective in reducing pain and improving function than advice and information alone. In addition, compared to advice and information or placebo, there was strong evidence that quadriceps-strengthening exercises combined with other interventions may be more effective in reducing pain immediately postintervention and after 12 months, but not in improving function.
Conclusion
The literature provides strong evidence for the use of quadriceps-strengthening exercises, with or without other interventions, for the treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Level of Evidence
Therapy, level 1a-. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(6):391–402. Epub 25 April 2014. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.4127