Investigating how limited ankle movement affects squats in people with knee pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This research examines the connection between limited ankle dorsiflexion and its impact on single limb squats in individuals suffering from patellofemoral pain. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an experimental group, which will receive interventions aimed at increasing dorsiflexion, or a minimal intervention group that will engage in light activities. The study will involve measuring dorsiflexion range of motion, hip abductor strength, and performance on the Lateral Step Down test using motion capture technology. The goal is to understand how improving ankle mobility may influence knee pain and function during specific movements.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* History of active Patellofemoral Pain for at least 6 months
* No clinic based therapeutic interventions for a 6-month period prior to testing
* Females aged 18-59 years' old
* Limited ankle dorsiflexion as noted by \<45degs using the weight bearing lunge test

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of musculoskeletal surgery or fractures on the tested leg or lumbar spine that could affect their biomechanics during the study
* History of soft tissue or skeletal abnormalities in the tested limb
* Current knee effusion
* Resting pain greater than 5/10

Where it's running

• Loma Linda University
  Loma Linda, California, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Everett Lohman, Dsc — Loma Linda University
• Study coordinator: Everett Lohman, DSc
• Email: elohman@llu.edu
• Phone: 909-558-4632

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.