Effect of Core Exercises on Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Purpose: Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a frequent musculoskeletal disorder, which can result from core muscles instability that can lead to pain, function and altered dynamic balance. The objective of this study is to assess the effect of core muscle strengthening on pain, function, strength and dynamic balance in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Subjects and Methods: Forty-four patients with age ranging from 18 to 35 years with patellofemoral pain syndrome will be divided into study (N=22) and control (N=22) groups. Both groups will be given 6 weeks of conventional physical therapy program and an additional core muscle strengthening for the study group. The tools are being used to assess the outcome are 1- Visual Analogue Scale,2- handheld dynamometer,3-AKPS 4- BIODEX Balance. Hypotheses: It will be hypothesized that: 1. There is no effect of core strengthening exercises on pain in treating PFPS. 2. There is no effect of core strengthening exercises on muscle strength in treating PFPS. 3. There is no effect of core strengthening exercises on function in treating PFPS.