Author ORCID Identifier
James R. Burns: https://orcid.org/0009-0006-4803-4682
Jennifer L. Kennedy: https://orcid.org/0009-0003-8792-5283
Amy D. Parker: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-9446-3771
Abstract
Introduction: Patellofemoral pain is a common condition that results in anterior knee pain and frequently affects a wide range of the population, from adolescents to older adults. The etiology of patellofemoral pain is multifactorial and usually results in peripatellar or retropatellar pain. The purpose of this study is to determine whether a correlation exists between the strength of the posterolateral hip musculature and the severity of pain or level of function experienced by individuals with patellofemoral pain.
Methods: The participants rated pain and functional levels with the Numeric Pain Rating Scale and the Lower Extremity Functional Scale, respectively. The strength of the participants’ posterolateral hip musculature was assessed with a handheld dynamometer. This study used a quantitative, cross-sectional, correlational design to determine the nature of the correlations between these variables.
Results: A total of 30 participants met the inclusion criteria and participated in the study. Posterolateral hip strength and pain severity ratings were found to be significantly negatively correlated at the .05 level, r (28) = -.375, p=.041. Posterolateral hip strength and the participants' level of function were significantly positively correlated at the .01 level, r (28) = .541, p = .002. Pain severity ratings and the participants' level of function were also significantly negatively correlated at the .001 level, r (28) = - .526, p = .003.
Discussion: Due to the multifactorial nature of PFP, the most evidence-based treatment approach is a thorough assessment followed by the development and implementation of an individualized, comprehensive treatment plan. Based on the findings of the study, however, weakness of the posterolateral hip musculature may indeed be present in a significant percentage of individuals with PFP.
The authors declare no competing interests.
Recommended Citation
Burns, J. R., Kennedy, J. L., & Parker, A. D. (2024). Patellofemoral Pain: Correlations between Hip Strength, Pain Severity, and Function. Philippine Journal of Physical Therapy, 3(2), 4-14. https://doi.org/10.46409/002.KPNU3996
Included in
Kinesiotherapy Commons, Physical Therapy Commons, Physiotherapy Commons, Sports Sciences Commons
