The primary goal of this randomized clinical trial (RCT) is to evaluate whether Kinesio Taping versus McConnell Taping, when integrated into a standardized hip-knee strengthening and neuromuscular control program, produces significant effects in individuals aged 18-50 with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).

The main question it aims to answer is: Does Kinesio Taping compared with McConnell Taping when both combined with a standardized hip-knee exercise program, produce different effects on quadriceps neuromuscular activation (VMO-VL sEMG), pain, functional knee pain, and dynamic knee valgus over a 6 week period intervention?

Participants will be divided into three groups for comparison: the control group will receive a structured hip-knee physical therapy exercise program without any taping intervention, Kinesio Taping group with a standardized exercise program, and a McConnell Taping group with a standardized exercise program.

Kinesio Taping and McConnell Taping are commonly used as adjuncts to exercise therapy in the management of patellofemoral pain syndrome. Both techniques have been shown to improve pain and function in the short term; however, evidence directly comparing their long-term effects when combined with a standardized exercise program remains limited. Furthermore, the influence of taping modality on quadriceps muscle activation and lower-limb kinematic patterns during rehabilitation has not been fully established.

Based on this, the investigators hypothesize that both interventions will improve clinical and neuromuscular outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Anterior or retropatellar pain for a minimum of 3 months during functional activities.
• 18-50 years of age.
• Minimum pain of 3/10 on the VAS score.
• No LL physical therapy in the past 3 months.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Meniscal or ligamentous injury
• Neurological or systemic conditions affecting proprioception, coordination and balance.
• Spinal referred pain or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Hip and ankle disorders.