Exercise program for patellofemoral pain relief

Comparative Effects of Clamshells Exercise and Vastrus Medialis Oblique Strengthening Exercise on Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

NA · Riphah International University · NCT05924607

This study is testing whether clamshell and specific knee-strengthening exercises can help young adults with patellofemoral pain feel better and move more easily.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment42 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University (other)
Locations1 site (Lahore, Punjab)
Trial IDNCT05924607 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of clamshell exercises and targeted vastus medialis oblique (VMO) strengthening exercises in treating patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) in individuals aged 18 to 40. Participants will engage in these exercises to improve muscle strength and stability around the knee joint, which may alleviate pain during common activities. The study focuses on individuals experiencing knee pain provoked by functional activities such as stair climbing and running. By assessing pain levels and functional improvements, the study aims to determine the best exercise approach for managing PFPS.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 40 with unilateral or bilateral knee pain lasting 1-3 months, provoked by specific functional activities.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of patellar subluxation, knee surgery within the past year, or significant knee joint pathologies may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-invasive exercise-based treatment option for patients suffering from patellofemoral pain syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with similar exercise interventions for patellofemoral pain syndrome, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 to 40years
* Both Genders (male \& female)
* Unilateral or bilateral knee pain for at least 1-3 month,
* Pain provoked by at least 3 functional activities ( ascending/descending stairs, kneeling, jumping, running, squatting,hopping,prolonged sitting)
* Average NPRS score above 3 out of 10 during previous week.
* Knee pain on stepping down from 20cm step height.

Exclusion Criteria

* Previous history of patellar subluxation or dislocation
* Knee surgery within previous year
* History of knee joint pathologies ( meniscus,ligament injuries,)
* Any fracture of lower extremity
* Massive effusion/any abnormal deformity of knee joint.

Where this trial is running

Lahore, Punjab

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.