Myofascial release therapy for knee pain related to patellar tracking issues
Effects of Compressive Myofascial Release of the Vastus Lateralis on Lateral Patellar Tracking in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
This study is trying out a special massage technique to see if it can help young adults with knee pain from patellar tracking issues feel better and move more easily.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT06875804 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of compressive myofascial release on the vastus lateralis muscle to improve lateral patellar tracking in patients with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS). PFPS is characterized by anterior knee pain and is often exacerbated by activities like squatting and running. The study employs a randomized controlled trial design, enrolling patients aged 20 to 40 diagnosed with PFPS and exhibiting specific symptoms and radiographic findings. The intervention includes baseline physical therapy treatment alongside the myofascial release technique aimed at alleviating muscle tightness and restoring optimal function.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 20 to 40 who have been diagnosed with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and exhibit specific symptoms related to patellar tracking.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of knee surgery, other knee conditions, or contraindications to myofascial release therapy are unlikely to benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce knee pain and improve mobility for patients suffering from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: While myofascial release techniques have been explored in various contexts, this specific application to PFPS and lateral patellar tracking is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age group between 20 to 40 years * Male and female gender * Diagnosed cases of Patellofemoral syndrome * Participants with positive J sign and Clarke's test * Pain provoked during knee loading physical activity, such as jumping, running, squatting, or going up or down stairs in last 3 months * Presence of excessive lateral patellar tracking on axial view radiographs Exclusion Criteria: * History of knee surgery in the past year. * Any contraindications to myofascial release therapy, such as active infections, open wounds. * Presence of hip pathology or other knee conditions such as ligament tears, meniscal injuries, Osgood-Schlatter or Sinding-Larsen-Johanssen syndrome or jumpers knee * Participants with a history of trauma or repetitive episodes of patellar subluxation or dislocation * Use of intra-articular corticosteroid injections * Presence of auto-immune disorder (spondylolisthesis, spondylitis, Rheumatoid arthritis etc.) other than knee OA or systemic conditions such as severe cardiovascular disease
Where this trial is running
Lahore, Punjab Province
- Social Security Hospital — Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ghulam Fatima, PHD* — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Imran Amjad, PHD*
- Email: imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 03324390125
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.