Does kinesiophobia influence jump landing kinematics in women with patellofemoral pain?

Abstract

Methods Women aged 18 to 30 years with complaints of PFP participated in this study. Initially, anamnesis was performed, followed by the application of the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia. Subsequently, kinematic evaluation of the lower limb was conducted. Reflective markers were positioned on the dominant lower limb at the following anatomical points: anterior superior iliac spine, acromion, greater trochanter of the femur, center of the patella, lateral malleolus, and head of the fifth metatarsal. Volunteers were instructed to step onto a 30 cm box and perform a jump, landing on the ground using only the affected lower limb. The test was performed three times, and the following angles were calculated: hip flexion, pelvic tilt, knee flexion, knee valgus, and ankle dorsiflexion. For statistical analysis, Pearson’s correlation test was used, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results Knee flexion angles (p = 0.008, r = 0.806), ankle dorsiflexion (p = 0.015, r = 0.517), and pelvic tilt (p = 0.043, r = 0.436) during single-leg jump landing were associated with kinesiophobia levels in women with PFP. Conclusion Kinesiophobia alters movement patterns during single-leg jump landing, such that higher levels of kinesiophobia lead to the adoption of biomechanical adjustments in landing kinematics, which may result in greater joint overload. Implications This study demonstrated that kinesiophobia levels are related to altered movement patterns during activities that impose high patellofemoral loads. The reduction in knee flexion angle observed in women with PFP and kinesiophobia may represent an attempt to maintain joint stability and reduce pain during movement execution, considering that pain intensifies at greater flexion angles. However, landing from a jump with a stiffer knee, greater pelvic tilt, and reduced ankle mobility may decrease impact absorption and have deleterious effects on the joint in the medium and long term. Therefore, rehabilitation programs for PFP should include patient education strategies aimed at reducing kinesiophobia alongside resistance exercises to achieve more effective outcomes.