Neuromuscular control of the knee and hip and its relationship with function in women with patellofemoral pain

BACKGROUND: The combined assessment of subjective and objective measures is essential to understand functional impairment in individuals with patellofemoral pain (PFP) and to guide appropriate rehabilitation strategies. The objective to was investigate the relationship between objective and subjective function and neuromuscular control of the hip and knee in women with PFP and asymptomatic women. METHODS: Data were collected from 30 women (22.56 ± 4.21 years) with PFP and 30 asymptomatic women (21.10 ± 1.68). Initially, anthropometric data were collected and the Anterior Knee Pain Scale (AKPS) was applied. Subsequently, objective function was assessed using four tests: step descent, single-legged chair rise, anterior hop, and lateral hop. On the second day, knee extensor, hip extensor, and hip abductor torque were assessed on an isokinetic dynamometer. The protocol consisted of 3 concentric contractions at a speed of 60°/sec for the knee joint and 30°/sec for the hip joint. For statistical analysis, the independent t-test was applied to compare variables between groups and the Pearson correlation test, with a significance level of p < 0.05. RESULTS: Women with PFP have a deficit in the ability to produce maximum hip and knee force during concentric contractions (p < 0.05). Moderate correlations were found in strength and TDT and functional performance. CONCLUSION: The deficit in the ability to produce muscle strength and power of the hip and knee negatively interferes with functional performance and should therefore be considered in rehabilitation.