Actively Recruiting
Effect of Adding Core Exercises to Hip and Knee-focused Exercises on Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Led by Cairo University · Updated on 2025-01-03
44
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
2 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating the impact of core muscle strengthening exercises on pain, muscle strength, function, and balance in patients aged 18 to 35 years with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), a common musculoskeletal condition caused by core muscle instability. This study aims to determine whether adding core strengthening exercises to conventional physical therapy improves these outcomes compared to standard hip and knee-focused exercises alone. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: the study group will receive a 6-week program of core muscle strengthening exercises plus conventional therapy, while the control group will receive only hip and knee-focused exercises for the same duration. The core strengthening program includes 12 sessions over 6 weeks, involving exercises like curl-ups, side bridges, and quadruped positions, while the control group performs targeted hip and knee exercises such as hip abduction and mini squats. During the study, researchers will assess pain levels, knee function, muscle strength, and dynamic balance using tools like the Visual Analogue Scale, handheld dynamometer, AKPS, and BIODEX Balance system. These outcomes will be measured before and after the 6-week treatment period. Participant progress and responses to exercises will be closely monitored throughout the study to understand the effects of core strengthening on PFPS symptoms and function.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Effect of Core Exercises on Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Patients aged 18 to 35 years of both genders
- Gradual knee pain in the front lasting more than 12 weeks
- Body mass index between 18 and 25 kg/m2
- Pain worsened by at least two activities such as jumping, running, prolonged sitting, stair climbing, kneeling, or squatting
- Positive patellar grinding test
- Symptoms started without traumatic injury
You will not qualify if you...
- History of traumatic patellar subluxation or dislocation
- History of meniscal or other intra-articular knee problems, or ligament injuries
- Any lower limb bone or congenital deformities
- Previous knee or hip joint surgeries
- Osteoarthritis in ankle, knee, or hip joints
- Conditions affecting muscle strength such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 6 weeks
Participants receive a 6-week exercise program. The study group performs core muscle strengthening exercises in addition to hip and knee-focused exercises, with two sessions per week. The control group performs only hip and knee-focused exercises.
12 sessions over 6 weeks
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Cairo University
Giza, Egypt
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
R
Rana Ibrahim Ahmed, Bachelor Physical Therapy-MUST
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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