People with patellofemoral pain have task-dependent postural control alterations

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Motor Control
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is a common musculoskeletal condition affecting knee joint function.
• Altered postural control may contribute to the development and persistence of PFP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare postural control between individuals with and without PFP.
• To assess postural control during static and dynamic single-leg tasks, including the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT).

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional laboratory study was conducted with 44 participants (22 with PFP, 22 controls).
• Postural control was assessed using reach distances in the SEBT and center of pressure (CoP) analysis during single-legged stance, squat, and landing tasks.

Main Results:

• Participants with PFP exhibited larger CoP ellipse areas during single-legged squats and landings compared to controls.
• PFP group showed altered anteroposterior CoP behavior (displacement, trajectory length, velocity) during single-legged squats.
• No significant differences in SEBT reach distances or CoP variables during single-legged stance were found between groups.

Conclusions:

• Individuals with PFP demonstrate impaired postural control during dynamic tasks, specifically single-legged squats and landings.
• Postural control appears intact during static single-leg stance and SEBT in individuals with PFP.