Effects of Proximal Strengthening Exercises in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Among Basketball Players

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a common knee condition that affects basketball players and can lead to significant pain and functional limitations. The syndrome involves pain around or behind the patella (kneecap) due to malalignment and abnormal tracking of the patella within the femoral groove. Isolated strengthening exercises targeting the quadriceps have been widely recommended as a treatment approach for PFPS. However, recent research suggests that incorporating proximal strengthening exercises, focusing on the hip and core muscles, may enhance treatment outcomes. This study aims to investigate the comparative effectiveness of isolated strengthening exercises alone versus combined with proximal strengthening exercises in reducing pain and improving functionality in basketball players with PFPS. This research will employ a randomized clinical trial design to assess the impact of different strengthening exercise protocols on pain and functionality among basketball players diagnosed with PFPS. A sample of 32 basketball players aged 18-40 years, diagnosed with PFPS by a qualified orthopedic specialist and physiotherapists will be recruited for the study. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: The Isolated Strengthening Exercises (ISE) group and the Combined Strengthening Exercises (CSE) group, which includes both isolated and proximal strengthening exercises. The ISE group will follow a structured program consisting of isolated strengthening exercises targeting the quadriceps, focusing on exercises such as leg extensions, squats, and lunges. The CSE group will perform the same isolated strengthening exercises but with the addition of proximal strengthening exercises for the hip and core muscles, including exercises such as hip abduction, clamshells, and planks. Outcome measures, including pain levels using NPRS, functionality using the KOOS-PF, Step-down test, single leg squat Hop test, and range of motion assessments, will be recorded at baseline after 6 weeks. Statistical analysis, including independent t-tests, will be performed to compare the outcomes between the ISE and CSE groups using SPSS version 26.0.