Comparing two techniques for treating knee pain

Compare the Effects of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and Muscle Energy Technique on Iliotibial Band Tightness in Patients With Patellofemoral Syndrome.

Not applicable Interventional Riphah International University · NCT06598618

This study is testing whether two different treatment methods for knee pain can help people with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome feel better and move more easily.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment48 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rawalpindi, Punjab Province)
Trial IDNCT06598618 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and Muscle Energy Technique (MET) in alleviating pain, improving range of motion, and enhancing functional mobility in patients suffering from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS). Participants will undergo either the Graston technique combined with conventional physical therapy or the Muscle Energy Technique along with conventional physical therapy. The study will assess the impact of these interventions on iliotibial band tightness and associated knee pain during common activities such as stair climbing and squatting.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 35 experiencing anterior or retro patellar knee pain for at least three months.

Not a fit: Patients with meniscal or ligament tears, knee osteoarthritis, or those who have had previous lower limb surgeries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective non-surgical treatment options for patients with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing literature on the effectiveness of IASTM and MET, this specific comparison in the context of PFPS is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* • Age between 18 and 35 years

  * Both Genders.
  * Anterior or retro patellar knee pain for at least the past 3 months.
  * Knee pain during at least 3 of the following activities: ascending/descending stairs, squatting, hopping/ running, and prolonged sitting.
  * Retro patellar pain in patellar grind test (positive clarke's sign).
  * A score of at least 3 on the visual analog scale (VAS).
  * Positive Ober's test.

Exclusion Criteria:

* • Any meniscal or ligament tears of knee.

  * Knee osteoarthritis.
  * Any previous surgery of lower limb.
  * Patellar fracture or fracture of lower extremity.
  * Having received knee injections of corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid.
  * Osteoporosis of knee joint.

Where this trial is running

Rawalpindi, Punjab Province

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Patellofemoral Pain SyndromeIASTMMETiliotibial bandpatellofemoral pain syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.