Comparing Mulligan MWM versus Maitland patellar mobilizations for patellofemoral pain
Comparison Between the Effects of Mulligan and Maitland Mobilization on Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
This test compares two hands-on knee mobilization techniques to see which one reduces pain and improves motion and function for adults 18–40 with patellofemoral pain.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad) |
| Trial ID | NCT07004881 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is a randomized controlled trial that enrolls 40 adults with patellofemoral pain syndrome and randomly assigns them to receive either Mulligan Mobilization With Movement (MWM) or Maitland patellar mobilizations. Each group receives the assigned manual therapy over a two‑week period with outcomes recorded at baseline and after 2 weeks. Primary outcome measures include pain using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), knee range of motion by goniometry, and function using the Lower Extremity Function Scale (LEFS). Participants with recent surgery, signs of meniscal/ligament/bursal injury, chondromalacia, tibiofemoral instability, or systemic rheumatic disease are excluded.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18–40 with at least 2 months of patellofemoral pain, a pain score ≥3 on the NPRS, positive patellar facet tenderness, and pain with activities like stairs, squatting, or prolonged sitting are the intended participants.
Not a fit: People with meniscal, ligament, or bursal injuries, chondromalacia patellae, tibiofemoral instability, prior lower-extremity surgery, or systemic inflammatory/rheumatic conditions are unlikely to benefit from these specific manual techniques.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If effective, the better technique could provide quicker pain relief and improved knee motion and daily function for young adults with patellofemoral pain.
How similar studies have performed: Prior small physiotherapy trials have reported short-term pain and function improvements with Mulligan MWM and Maitland mobilizations, but findings are mixed and not conclusive.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Referred patients from rehabilitation, orthopedic and rheumatology department * Both males and females of age 18-40 years * Having pain from at least 2 months. * Pain score ≥ 3 on NPRS. * Pain on palpation of medial or lateral Patellar facet. (12, 13) * Retro patellar pain in at least two of the following activities: * Ascending , descending stairs * Hopping / jumping * prolonged sitting with flexed knees * kneeling and squatting * Patellar tilt test * EXCLUSION CRIETERIA: * Positive tests/findings on physical examination for knee menisci, ligaments and bursa. * Chondromalacia patellae * Individuals with Instability of tibiofemoral joint * lower extremity surgery * Rheumatoid arthritis, other connective tissue disorders and congenital deformities.
Where this trial is running
Islamabad
- Foundation University College of Physical Therapy — Islamabad, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Anza Moiz, DPT
- Email: anzamoiz31@gmail.com
- Phone: +923350511715
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.