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Muscle Imbalances: Testing and Training Functional Eccentric Hamstring Strength in Athletic Populations
Published on: May 1, 2018
Hamstring length in patellofemoral pain syndrome
Lisa C White1, Philippa Dolphin, John Dixon
1Department of Rehabilitation, James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, UK.
Physiotherapy
|July 25, 2009
Summary
Patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome exhibit shorter hamstring muscles compared to healthy individuals. This study highlights a potential link between hamstring length and patellofemoral pain syndrome, warranting further investigation into causality and rehabilitation implications.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
- Biomechanical Research
Background:
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common musculoskeletal condition.
- Limited research exists on the relationship between hamstring muscle length and PFPS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare hamstring muscle length in individuals with PFPS versus healthy controls.
- To determine if hamstring length is a differentiating factor in PFPS.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional observational study design was employed.
- Hamstring length was measured using the passive knee extension method to assess the popliteal angle.
- Participants included adults aged 18-35 years, with one group diagnosed with PFPS (n=11) and a control group of asymptomatic individuals (n=25).
Main Results:
- Patients with PFPS demonstrated significantly shorter hamstring muscles (mean popliteal angle: 145.6°) compared to asymptomatic controls (mean popliteal angle: 153.7°).
- The difference in hamstring length between the groups was statistically significant (P<0.05).
Conclusions:
- Individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome present with reduced hamstring muscle length.
- The causal relationship between shorter hamstrings and PFPS requires further investigation.
- Future research should explore hamstring length changes during rehabilitation and its correlation with pain levels.
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