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Patellar location changes following EMG biofeedback or progressive resistive exercises.
1Sports Injury Research Laboratory, Indiana State University, Terre Haute 47809.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|October 1, 1991
Summary
EMG biofeedback training effectively improved patellofemoral congruence (PFC) and patellar rotation (PR) in college females. Selective vastus medialis obliquus strengthening is crucial for correcting faulty patellar tracking.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Patellar tracking dysfunctions are common in athletes and can lead to pain and injury.
- Traditional strengthening programs may not fully address the underlying biomechanical issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of EMG biofeedback training, DAPRE technique, and no exercise on patellofemoral congruence (PFC) and patellar rotation (PR) angles.
- To determine if selective vastus medialis obliquus strengthening is essential for correcting faulty patellar tracking.
Main Methods:
- 30 healthy college females were divided into three groups: EMG biofeedback, DAPRE, and control.
- Patellar angles (PFC, PR, sulcus) were measured via X-ray pre- and post-3 weeks of intervention.
- Interventions included EMG biofeedback for vastus medialis obliquus, DAPRE, or no exercise.
Main Results:
- EMG biofeedback significantly improved PFC angle with quadriceps contracted (P<0.05).
- DAPRE significantly improved PR angle with quadriceps contracted (P<0.05).
- Neither method fully resolved all tracking issues, but EMG biofeedback showed promise for specific improvements.
Conclusions:
- Quadriceps group strength alone is insufficient for complete patellar tracking rehabilitation.
- EMG biofeedback targeting the vastus medialis obliquus is essential for correcting faulty patellar tracking.
- Targeted neuromuscular re-education may be more effective than general strengthening for patellofemoral issues.