Shock Wave Therapy Versus Neuromuscular Training in Women With Patellofemoral Pain

Shock Wave Therapy Versus Neuromuscular Training in Women With Patellofemoral Pain

The aim of the trial is to compare the efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) versus neuromuscular training (TR) in reducing pain in women with patellofemoral pain (PFP). Women with PFP will be randomly divided into two therapeutic groups: ESWT and TR. The ESWT group will undergo extracorporeal shock wave therapy to the iliotibial band and tensor fascia latae. The TR group will be treated with neuromuscular training. The women's gait will be analysed and the strength of hip abductors and internal rotators will be measured. Additionally, the women's pain and health status will be assessed with the visual analogue scale and the Lysholm Scale. Outcomes will be registered at baseline, and then at five weeks and at three months post-therapy

Inclusion Criteria:

Knee pain for more than three months greater than three on the visual analogue scale (VAS) during at least two out of four typical activities:

1. ascending or descending the stairs,
2. prolonged sitting with flexed knee,
3. running or jumping,
4. squatting or kneeling.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Orthopaedic diagnosis other than PFP.
2. Patients with neurological disorders, history of injury or operations within the symptomatic leg, rheumatoid disease, or pregnancy were also excluded from the study.