A controlled trial of weight-bearing versus non-weight-bearing exercises for patellofemoral pain

Study Design: Randomized controlled trial, pretest-posttest design. Objectives: To compare the efficacy of non-weight-bearing single-joint quadriceps excerise (SJNWBE) versus weight-bearing multiple with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Background: PFPS is a common ailment of the knee. Both weight-bearing and non-weight bearing excerises are considered appropiate for strengthening the quadriceps, a key element in the treatment of this condition. Methods and measures: Forty-five male subjects with PFPS between 18 and 35 years of age were randomized into 1 of 3 groups. Group 1 (SJNWBE) performed knee extension excerises, group 2 (MJWBE) performed seated leg press excerises, and group 3 (control group) received no treatment. Subjective symptoms, knee extensor muscle strength, and functional performance were evaluated at the time of the initial examination and at the end of the 6-week treatment period. Results: Individuals in both excerise groups demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in pain and an increase in muscle strength and functional performance, as compared to the control group (P <.05). All measures showed no significant differences in outcome between the 2 excerise groups (P >.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing quadriceps excerises can significantly improve subjective and clinical outcomes in patients with PFPS.