Comparing two techniques for treating knee pain
Official title: Compare the Effects of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and Muscle Energy Technique on Iliotibial Band Tightness in Patients With Patellofemoral Syndrome.
Run by Riphah International University · NCT06598618 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Rawalpindi, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 2, 2024 |
| Main results expected | September 25, 2025 |
| Study ends | September 28, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | February 21, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06598618 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 35 experiencing anterior or retro patellar knee pain for at least three months.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: While there is existing literature on the effectiveness of IASTM and MET, this specific comparison in the context of PFPS is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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Pakistan Railway hospital
Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kinza Anwar, Ms-Ompt — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Kinza Anwar, Ms-Ompt
- Email: kinza.anwar@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: +92-3239735427
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Taping methods with hip and knee strengthening for patellofemoral pain
This study tests whether McConnell taping or Kinesio taping, each with a guided hip and knee strengthening program, helps people aged 26-44 with patellofemoral pain.
-
Tele-rehabilitation for patellofemoral pain in recreational athletes
A randomized trial tests whether a remote, app-guided exercise program can help recreational athletes with patellofemoral pain as well as traditional in-person physiotherapy.
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Kinesio Taping vs McConnell Taping for Patellofemoral Pain: Adding Taping to a Hip-Knee Exercise Program
This study tests whether Kinesio or McConnell taping, when added to a standardized hip-knee exercise plan, helps people 18–50 with patellofemoral pain more than exercise alone.
-
Three Ways to Strengthen the VMO for Patellofemoral Pain
This study tests whether isometric, isotonic, or eccentric strengthening of the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) in the 0–30° knee bend helps reduce knee pain and improve function in adults with patellofemoral pain.
-
Saphenous nerve release for patellofemoral (anterior knee) pain
This trial will try a manual saphenous nerve release to reduce pain and improve knee function and balance in adults 18–35 with patellofemoral pain who have a positive saphenous neurodynamic test.
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Popliteus muscle release versus Kinesio taping for patellofemoral pain
This will test whether popliteus muscle release or Kinesio taping better reduces pain and improves function in adults 18–30 with patellofemoral pain.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.