Article

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether a novel, task-specific training intervention
that focused on correcting pain-producing movement patterns was feasible and
whether it would improve hip and knee kinematics, pain, and function in women
with patellofemoral pain. DESIGN: Prospective, non-randomized, within-group,
double baseline, feasibility intervention study. SUBJECTS:
A total of 25 women
with patellofemoral pain were enrolled. INTERVENTION: The intervention, delivered
2x/week for six weeks, consisted of supervised, high-repetition practice of daily
weight-bearing and recreational activities. Activities were selected and
progressed based on participants' interest and ability to maintain optimal
alignment without increasing pain. MAIN MEASURES: Primary feasibility outcomes
were recruitment, retention, adherence, and treatment credibility
(Credibility/Expectancy Questionnaire). Secondary outcomes assessing intervention
effects were hip and knee kinematics, pain (visual analog scale: current, average
in past week, maximum in past week), and function (Patient-Specific Functional
Scale). RESULTS: A total of 25 participants were recruited and 23 were retained
(92% retention). Self-reported average daily adherence was 79% and participants
were able to perform their prescribed home program correctly (reduced hip and
knee frontal plane angles) by the second intervention visit. On average,
treatment credibility was rated 25 (out of 27) and expectancy was rated 22 (out
of 27). Hip and knee kinematics, pain, and function improved following the
intervention when compared to the control phase. CONCLUSION: Based on the
feasibility outcomes and preliminary intervention effects, this task-specific
training intervention warrants further investigation and should be evaluated in a
larger, randomized clinical trial.

Langue : ANGLAIS