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Patellofemoral Pain SyndromeNCT06875804

Compressive Myofascial Release of the Vastus Lateralis on Lateral Patellar Tracking in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

A study testing baseline physical therapy treatment and Compressive myofascial release of vastus lateralis. in people with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.

Recruiting

Looking for participants now. Contact the study team or a site below to ask about taking part.

Sites and contacts
Official record
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Trial summary

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a prevalent condition characterized by anterior knee pain, often exacerbated by activities such as squatting, running, and stair climbing. This condition is frequently associated with improper patellar tracking, particularly lateral displacement, which can be influenced by various… Read more about this study

Who is it for?
Ages 20 to 40 years
Conditions the study is for
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
What is being tested?
baseline physical therapy treatment and Compressive myofascial release of vastus lateralis.
Could I receive a placebo?
No, everyone receives an active treatment
How many people
24 participants
Where
1 sitePakistan
Study dates
2 Jan 2025to 15 Sep 2025
Phase
Interventional
Are there results?
Not yet: the study is under way

Key requirements

Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.

  • Ages 20 to 40 years
  • All sexes
  • No healthy volunteers
  • Adult

Who may be able to join

  • Age group between 20 to 40 years
  • Male and female gender
  • Diagnosed cases of Patellofemoral syndrome
  • Participants with positive J sign and Clarke's test
  • Pain provoked during knee loading physical activity, such as jumping, running, squatting, or going up or down stairs in last 3 months
  • Presence of excessive lateral patellar tracking on axial view radiographs

Who cannot join

  • History of knee surgery in the past year.
  • Any contraindications to myofascial release therapy, such as active infections, open wounds.
  • Presence of hip pathology or other knee conditions such as ligament tears, meniscal injuries, Osgood-Schlatter or Sinding-Larsen-Johanssen syndrome or jumpers knee
  • Participants with a history of trauma or repetitive episodes of patellar subluxation or dislocation
  • Use of intra-articular corticosteroid injections
  • Presence of auto-immune disorder (spondylolisthesis, spondylitis, Rheumatoid arthritis etc.) other than knee OA or systemic conditions such as severe cardiovascular disease

Trial locations and contacts

1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.

Imran Amjad, PHD* contact

03324390125

imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk

Imran Amjad, PHD* contact

051-5481826

imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk

Pakistan1 site, 1 recruiting
  • Social Security Hospital

    Lahore, Punjab Province, 54000

    Ghulam Fatima, PhD*, 03034073057, ghulam.fatima@riphah.edu.pk

    Muhammad Burhan, MS*

    Recruiting

Other trials in Pakistan

About this study

Official title: Effects of Compressive Myofascial Release of the Vastus Lateralis on Lateral Patellar Tracking in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a prevalent condition characterized by anterior knee pain, often exacerbated by activities such as squatting, running, and stair climbing. This condition is frequently associated with improper patellar tracking, particularly lateral displacement, which can be influenced by various factors including muscular imbalances and tightness. The vastus lateralis muscle, part of the quadriceps group, is often implicated in contributing to lateral patellar tracking due to its attachment and alignment. Compressive myofascial release (CMFR) is a therapeutic technique aimed at reducing muscle tightness and restoring optimal muscle function. This study will explore the effects compressive myofascial release on the vastus lateralis in improving patellar tracking in patients diagnosed with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.The methodology of this study involves a randomized controlled trial with a sample of patients diagnosed with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. Non-probability convenience sampling technique will be used and participants will be recruited in groups after randomization. Participants(n=26) will be divided into two groups: the intervention group (n=13) receiving compressive myofascial release on the vastus lateralis, and a control group receiving(n=13) a routine treatment. The intervention will be administered over a period of four weeks, with sessions occurring three times weekly. Patellar tracking will be assessed using q-angle analysis both pre- and post-intervention. Additionally, subjective measures of pain and functional ability will be evaluated using the Numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) and the Kujala Patellofemoral Score. Data analysis will focus on comparing the changes in lateral patellar displacement and patient-reported outcomes between the two groups to determine the efficacy of compressive myofascial release in correcting lateral patellar tracking and alleviating symptoms of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. SPSS version 25 will be used for data analysis

Read the detailed description

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common health-related complaints in today's societies. PFPS refers to a syndrome that comprises of the following signs and symptoms: anterior knee pain, inflammation, imbalance and instability. About 50% of the non-specific knee pain is diagnosed as PFPS. PFPS frequently becomes chronic, and patients cannot do physical activity. Individuals with PFPS typically report pain that is either located in the peri-patellar or retro-patellar region during active movements involving knee movement.

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) has been attributed as the main cause and primary source of musculoskeletal pain in 30-85% of the patients attending physical therapy clinics. Myofascial pain syndrome often presents in the forms of pain, muscle spasm or TrP. TrP has been described as a hyperirritability spot located in a taut band of muscle; or a small pea or rope-like nodular or crepitant (crackling, grating) area within the muscle, which is painful to palpation or compression and refers pain, tenderness, or an autonomic response to a remote area. It is stated that "jump response" is elicited when pressure is applied to a Trp. TrP may result from mechanical overload, trauma, overuse, postural faults, or psychological stress. Based on their primary functions, muscles are categorized as "phasic" or "postural" muscles. In response to dysfunction or overuse, the phasic muscles tend to be inhibited or weakened; while the postural muscles tend to develop higher tone and ultimately shorten. A muscle imbalance between the dynamic and postural muscles may lead to MTP in the musculoskeletal system.

Being tested
baseline physical therapy treatment, Compressive myofascial release of vastus lateralis.
Keywords
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, Myofascial Release, Vastus Lateralis, Patellar Tracking, Knee joint, Pain, Range of motion
Medical subject headings
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, Pain

What participants receive

What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.

  • baseline physical therapy treatmentOther

    Group A focuses on pain relief, muscle relaxation, and strengthening. Hot packs and TENS are applied to the lateral thigh and knee for 20 minutes to reduce pain and muscle tension. Hip strengthening exercises include side-lying hip abduction, clam-shells, prone hip extension, bridging, and lunges. Quadriceps exercises involve straight leg raises, prone terminal knee extension, and mini-squats. Each exercise is done in 2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions, holding stretches for 5 seconds.

  • Compressive myofascial release of vastus lateralis.Other

    The experimental group receives an additional session of Compressive Myofascial Release (CMFR) for the Vastus Lateralis to address lateral patellar tracking in PFPS patients. The patient lies on their side, and the therapist identifies tight areas, applying firm pressure for 20-30 seconds. Deeper pressure is held for 30-60 seconds, followed by 1-2 minutes of cross-fiber friction. The session includes muscle shaking for 30 seconds and stretching the Vastus Lateralis by extending the hip and flexing the knee for 30-60 seconds, repeated 2-3 times. Patient response is documented for progress tracking.

Study groups in NCT06875804
Study groupRoleWhat they receive
Group A: Baseline physical therapy treatmentActive comparatorbaseline physical therapy treatment
Receives: Other: baseline physical therapy treatment
Group B: Compressive myofascial release of vastus lateralis.Experimentalbaseline physical therapy treatment along with compressive myofascial release of vastus lateralis
Receives: Other: Compressive myofascial release of vastus lateralis.

What is being measured

The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.

  1. Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS)

    It is a standardized self-report device consisting of a horizontal line used to estimate the subjective level of pain intensity. It is a 10 points numerical scale, corresponding to the degree of pain.

    Measured: 4 weeks

  2. Q angle

    Quadriceps angle (Q-angle) has been used as a diagnostic measurement to assess factors which appear to increase the risk of the development of acute and/or chronic patellofemoral injury and pain in bipedal individuals. The Q-angle is the angle between the line of pull of the quadriceps (anterior superior iliac spine to mid-patella) and a line connecting the center of patella with tibial tuberosity. Normal Q-angle for males is 10-13 degrees and 15-17 degrees for females.

    Measured: 4 weeks

  3. Goniometry

    A goniometer is the most common instrument used to measure range of motion. If a patient has altered range of motion in a particular joint, the therapist can use a goniometer to assess what the range of motion is at the initial assessment, and then make sure the intervention is working by using the goniometer in subsequent sessions to assess the effectiveness of the intervention. Goniometric measurements should be performed with functional AROM and PROM. The typical documentation for the knee motion is: 10-0-135 degrees beginning with hyperextension, moving through neutral 0 and into flexion.

    Measured: 4 weeks

  4. Kujala score

    The "Kujala Score" is the eponymous name for the Anterior Knee Pain Scale (AKPS). It is a patient-reported outcome survey and diagnostic tool that aims to assess the severity of symptoms and physical limitations in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). It was initially derived due to the diagnostic inconsistency among other tools that were used with PFPS patients. The Kujala Patellofemoral Scale is a valid and reliable questionnaire to evaluate functioning in patients with PFPS. The scores range from a maximum of 100 to a minimum of 0, with lower scores indicating greater pain and disability.

    Measured: 4 weeks

Timeline

From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.

  1. First posted13 Mar 2025
  2. Study start2 Jan 2025
  3. Primary completion2 Sep 2025 (estimated)
  4. Study completion15 Sep 2025 (estimated)

Resources

More details

For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.

Study design
Study type
Interventional
Phase
Phase N/A
Primary purpose
Treatment
Allocation
Randomised
Intervention model
Parallel groups
Masking
Single blind
Who is masked
Outcomes assessor
Enrolment
24 participants (estimated)
IDs, dates and publications
ClinicalTrials.gov ID
NCT06875804
Sponsor's protocol ID
REC/RCR & AHS/24/0149
Status last verified
Mar 2025
First submitted
10 Mar 2025
Last updated
13 Mar 2025
Results posted
No
Data monitoring committee
No
FDA-regulated drug
No
FDA-regulated device
No
Individual data sharing
No

Publications

  • Torrente QM, Killingback A, Robertson C, Adds PJ. The Effect of Self-Myofascial Release on the Pennation Angle of the Vastus Medialis Oblique and the Vastus Lateralis in Athletic Male Individuals: An Ultrasound Investigation. Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2022 Jun 1;17(4):636-642. doi: 10.26603/001c.35591. eCollection 2022.

    PubMed 35693863
  • Stanek J, Sullivan T, Davis S. Comparison of Compressive Myofascial Release and the Graston Technique for Improving Ankle-Dorsiflexion Range of Motion. J Athl Train. 2018 Feb;53(2):160-167. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-386-16. Epub 2018 Jan 26.

    PubMed 29373060
  • Zago J, Amatuzzi F, Rondinel T, Matheus JP. Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment Versus Exercise Program in Runners With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Sport Rehabil. 2020 Dec 17;30(4):609-618. doi: 10.1123/jsr.2020-0108.

    PubMed 33333491
  • Halabchi F, Abolhasani M, Mirshahi M, Alizadeh Z. Patellofemoral pain in athletes: clinical perspectives. Open Access J Sports Med. 2017 Oct 9;8:189-203. doi: 10.2147/OAJSM.S127359. eCollection 2017.

    PubMed 29070955
  • Schoots EJ, Tak IJ, Veenstra BJ, Krebbers YM, Bax JG. Ultrasound characteristics of the lateral retinaculum in 10 patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome compared to healthy controls. J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2013 Oct;17(4):523-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2013.03.005. Epub 2013 Apr 26.

    PubMed 24139014

Questions about this trial

What is this clinical trial studying?

A study testing baseline physical therapy treatment and Compressive myofascial release of vastus lateralis. in people with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.

The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.

Who may be eligible to take part?

The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 6 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.

Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?

The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 13 Mar 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.

Where is the study taking place?

The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.

What are the possible benefits and risks?

They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.

Are results available for this study?

This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.

How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?

Contact Imran Amjad, PHD* (03324390125, imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.

What does the primary outcome measure?

Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) (time frame: 4 weeks). The study lists 4 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.

Where can I read the original study information?

On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT06875804, which also lists 5 linked publications.

Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?

No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.

How often is this information updated?

AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 13 Mar 2025.

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