The Utilization of Core Exercises in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain: A Critically Appraised Topic

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is a common knee condition causing anterior knee pain.
• PFP presents challenges in treatment due to multifactorial causes and recurrent symptoms.
• Traditional PFP rehabilitation often overlooks deep trunk musculature, focusing on quadriceps and gluteal strengthening.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of core stability exercises combined with traditional rehabilitation for PFP pain reduction.
• To compare outcomes of combined core and traditional therapy versus traditional therapy alone.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of three studies with a minimum PEDro score of 6.
• Studies investigated the effects of incorporating core strengthening into PFP rehabilitation protocols.
• Exercise protocols varied in duration, with some lasting 4 weeks and others 6 weeks.

Main Results:

• Two studies with 4-week protocols showed significantly greater pain reduction with combined therapy.
• One study with a 6-week program found similar pain reduction in both intervention and control groups.
• The evidence suggests a benefit of adding core stability exercises to traditional PFP treatment.

Conclusions:

• Core stability exercises integrated with traditional rehabilitation demonstrate superior effectiveness in decreasing patellofemoral pain.
• This combined approach is recommended for managing PFP symptoms.
• Further research may explore optimal durations and specific core exercises for PFP.