Patellofemoral Pain SyndromePFPS-QCORENCT07328750
Dynamic Q Angle and Core Endurance in Adolescent Athletes With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
An observational study of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and Anterior Knee Pain Syndrome, run by Eastern Mediterranean University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
This observational, cross-sectional study aimed to compare dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility between elite adolescent female and male sprinters with and without patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Participants were classified according to sex and PFPS status. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 15 to 17 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, Anterior Knee Pain Syndrome
- What is being tested?
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Status
- How many people
- 150 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 1 Dec 2025to 20 Feb 2026
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
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 15 to 17 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Child
Study population: Elite female and male adolescent sprinters aged 15-17 years who were actively competing in national or international sprint events. Participants were evaluated at the Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Clinic of the Adana Olympic Preparation Center, Provincial Directorate of Youth and Sports, Adana, Türkiye. Participants were classified according to biological sex and the presence or absence of patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Who may be able to join
- Female or male adolescent elite sprinters aged 15-17 years Minimum of two years of regular athletic training Participation in athletic training at least four days per week Possession of a valid track and field license Active participation in sprint events at the national or international level Ability to complete all clinical and biomechanical assessments Written informed consent from the participant and a parent or legal guardian
- PFPS Group-Specific Criteria:
- Diagnosis of patellofemoral pain syndrome by a sports medicine physician Anterior knee pain localized to the patellofemoral region Positive patellar compression and grind test Anterior Knee Pain Scale score below 80 Visual Analog Scale pain score of at least 3
- Control Group-Specific Criteria:
- No current anterior knee pain No clinical findings consistent with patellofemoral pain syndrome
Who cannot join
- History of lower-extremity surgery Acute lower-extremity injury within the previous six months Notable musculoskeletal deformity Arthritis or chronic pain affecting the knee, hip, or ankle Neurological or systemic disease that could affect movement or physical performance Inability to complete the assessments because of excessive pain or insufficient cooperation Incomplete assessment data
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Dynamic Q Angle And Core Endurance In Adolescent Athletes With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Sex-Based Comparative Study
This observational, cross-sectional study aimed to compare dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility between elite adolescent female and male sprinters with and without patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Participants were classified according to sex and PFPS status. Dynamic Q-angle was assessed during a standardized step-down task, trunk endurance was evaluated using McGill flexion, extension, and lateral endurance tests, and lower-extremity flexibility was assessed using the Straight Leg Raise, Modified Thomas, and Ober tests. The study also examined whether sex and PFPS status were independently associated with dynamic Q-angle. No therapeutic or experimental intervention was administered.
Read the detailed description
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a common musculoskeletal condition in adolescent athletes and may be associated with altered frontal-plane knee alignment, reduced proximal trunk control, and lower-extremity flexibility impairments. Sprint athletes are exposed to repetitive high-load and high-velocity movement patterns that require coordinated control of the trunk, pelvis, and lower extremities. However, sex-related differences in the biomechanical profile of adolescent sprinters with PFPS remain insufficiently understood.
This study was designed as an observational, cross-sectional, sex-based comparative investigation involving elite adolescent sprinters aged 15 to 17 years. A total of 150 athletes were enrolled. Three participants had incomplete assessment data and were excluded from the final analysis, resulting in 147 participants with complete data. Participants were classified into four groups according to sex and PFPS status: female sprinters without pain, female sprinters with PFPS, male sprinters without pain, and male sprinters with PFPS.
PFPS status was determined through clinical assessment by a sports medicine physician. The diagnostic assessment included anterior knee pain symptoms, clinical patellofemoral tests, the Anterior Knee Pain Scale, and the Visual Analog Scale. Control participants had no current anterior knee pain or clinical findings consistent with PFPS.
Dynamic Q-angle was assessed during a standardized step-down task using a two-dimensional mobile goniometric application. Anatomical markers were placed over the anterior superior iliac spine, patellar center, and tibial tuberosity. Two repetitions were recorded, and the mean value was used for analysis.
Trunk/core endurance was assessed using the McGill trunk flexion, trunk extension, and lateral endurance tests. Lower-extremity flexibility was evaluated using the Straight Leg Raise test for hamstring flexibility, the Modified Thomas test for hip-flexor flexibility, and the Ober test for iliotibial band and tensor fascia latae tightness. Body composition and relevant demographic and training characteristics were also recorded.
The primary objective was to compare dynamic Q-angle between participants according to sex and PFPS status. Secondary objectives were to compare trunk endurance and lower-extremity flexibility outcomes and to identify independent factors associated with dynamic Q-angle. All measurements were obtained during a single assessment period, and no therapeutic, exercise, pharmacological, or experimental intervention was administered.
- Being tested
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Status
- Keywords
- Dynamic Q Angle, Core Endurance, Lower Extremity Function, Sports-Specific Biomechanics, Elite Athletes, Adolescent Sports Performance
- Medical subject headings
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome StatusOther
Also called PFPS Status, Anterior Knee Pain Status
Participants were classified as having patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) or not having PFPS based on a clinical assessment performed by a sports medicine physician. PFPS classification was based on anterior knee pain symptoms, positive patellofemoral clinical tests, an Anterior Knee Pain Scale score below 80, and a Visual Analog Scale pain score of at least 3. Biological sex was used as an additional grouping factor. No therapeutic, exercise, pharmacological, or experimental intervention was administered.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Female Sprinters Without PFPS | Elite adolescent female sprinters aged 15-17 years without current anterior knee pain or clinical findings consistent with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Participants underwent a single standardized assessment of dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility. No therapeutic or experimental intervention was administered. | |
| Female Sprinters With PFPS | Elite adolescent female sprinters aged 15-17 years diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome by a sports medicine physician. Participants underwent a single standardized assessment of dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility. No therapeutic or experimental intervention was administered. Receives: Other: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Status | |
| Male Sprinters Without PFPS | Elite adolescent male sprinters aged 15-17 years without current anterior knee pain or clinical findings consistent with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Participants underwent a single standardized assessment of dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility. No therapeutic or experimental intervention was administered. | |
| Male Sprinters With PFPS | Elite adolescent male sprinters aged 15-17 years diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome by a sports medicine physician. Participants underwent a single standardized assessment of dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility. No therapeutic or experimental intervention was administered. Receives: Other: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Status |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Dynamic Q-Angle During the Step-Down Test (degrees)
Dynamic Q-angle was assessed during a standardized step-down task from a 16-cm platform using the DrGoniometer mobile application. Anatomical markers were placed over the anterior superior iliac spine, center of the patella, and tibial tuberosity. Two repetitions were recorded in the frontal plane, and the mean angle was used for analysis. In participants with PFPS, the symptomatic extremity was assessed; in participants without PFPS, the corresponding matched extremity was used.
Measured: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)
Secondary outcomes (4)
Trunk/Core Endurance Test Duration (seconds)
Trunk/core endurance was assessed using the McGill trunk flexion, trunk extension, and lateral plank endurance tests. The duration for which each standardized test position was maintained was recorded in seconds. Flexion, extension, and lateral endurance outcomes were analyzed separately; no composite score was calculated.
Measured: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)
Hamstring Flexibility - Straight Leg Raise Angle (degrees)
Hamstring flexibility was assessed using the Straight Leg Raise test. The assessed lower extremity was passively raised while the knee was maintained in extension, and the maximum hip flexion angle was recorded in degrees. Three measurements were performed, and the mean value was used for analysis.
Measured: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)
Hip Flexor Flexibility - Modified Thomas Test Angle (degrees)
Hip flexor flexibility was assessed using the Modified Thomas test. The non-assessed lower extremity was maintained in hip flexion while the hip angle of the assessed extremity was measured in degrees. Three measurements were performed, and the mean value was used for analysis.
Measured: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)
Iliotibial Band and Tensor Fasciae Latae Flexibility - Ober Test Angle (degrees)
Iliotibial band and tensor fasciae latae flexibility was assessed using the Ober test. The assessed lower extremity was positioned in hip extension and abduction and then allowed to move into adduction. The resulting thigh-drop angle was recorded in degrees. Three measurements were performed, and the mean value was used for analysis.
Measured: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted9 Jan 2026
- Study start1 Dec 2025
- Primary completion15 Feb 2026
- Study completion20 Feb 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Patellofemoral Pain SyndromeStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Case-control
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Enrolment
- 150 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Eastern Mediterranean University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Burçin Uğur Tosun, Eastern Mediterranean University
- Investigators
- burcin ugur tosun, Study chair, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Olympic Preparation Center, Adana, Türkiye
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07328750
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- PFAS-QCORE-2025
- Acronym
- PFPS-QCORE
- Status last verified
- Jul 2026
- First submitted
- 26 Dec 2025
- Last updated
- 20 Jul 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 20 Jul 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Dynamic Q Angle And Core Endurance In Adolescent Athletes With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Sex-Based Comparative Study
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07328750
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- PFPS-QCORE / PFAS-QCORE-2025
- Keywords
- Dynamic Q Angle, Core Endurance, Lower Extremity Function, Sports-Specific Biomechanics, Elite Athletes, Adolescent Sports Performance
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 150 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Eastern Mediterranean UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Dec 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 15 Feb 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 20 Feb 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 9 Jan 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This observational, cross-sectional study aimed to compare dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility between elite adolescent female and male sprinters with and without patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Participants were classified according to sex and PFPS status. Dynamic Q-angle was assessed during a standardized step-down task, trunk endurance was evaluated using McGill flexion, extension, and lateral endurance tests, and lower-extremity flexibility was assessed using the Straight Leg Raise, Modified Thomas, and Ober tests. The study also examined whether sex and PFPS status were independently associated with dynamic Q-angle. No therapeutic or experimental intervention was administered.
Detailed description
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a common musculoskeletal condition in adolescent athletes and may be associated with altered frontal-plane knee alignment, reduced proximal trunk control, and lower-extremity flexibility impairments. Sprint athletes are exposed to repetitive high-load and high-velocity movement patterns that require coordinated control of the trunk, pelvis, and lower extremities. However, sex-related differences in the biomechanical profile of adolescent sprinters with PFPS remain insufficiently understood.
This study was designed as an observational, cross-sectional, sex-based comparative investigation involving elite adolescent sprinters aged 15 to 17 years. A total of 150 athletes were enrolled. Three participants had incomplete assessment data and were excluded from the final analysis, resulting in 147 participants with complete data. Participants were classified into four groups according to sex and PFPS status: female sprinters without pain, female sprinters with PFPS, male sprinters without pain, and male sprinters with PFPS.
PFPS status was determined through clinical assessment by a sports medicine physician. The diagnostic assessment included anterior knee pain symptoms, clinical patellofemoral tests, the Anterior Knee Pain Scale, and the Visual Analog Scale. Control participants had no current anterior knee pain or clinical findings consistent with PFPS.
Dynamic Q-angle was assessed during a standardized step-down task using a two-dimensional mobile goniometric application. Anatomical markers were placed over the anterior superior iliac spine, patellar center, and tibial tuberosity. Two repetitions were recorded, and the mean value was used for analysis.
Trunk/core endurance was assessed using the McGill trunk flexion, trunk extension, and lateral endurance tests. Lower-extremity flexibility was evaluated using the Straight Leg Raise test for hamstring flexibility, the Modified Thomas test for hip-flexor flexibility, and the Ober test for iliotibial band and tensor fascia latae tightness. Body composition and relevant demographic and training characteristics were also recorded.
The primary objective was to compare dynamic Q-angle between participants according to sex and PFPS status. Secondary objectives were to compare trunk endurance and lower-extremity flexibility outcomes and to identify independent factors associated with dynamic Q-angle. All measurements were obtained during a single assessment period, and no therapeutic, exercise, pharmacological, or experimental intervention was administered.
Study design
- Observational model
- Case-control
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Number of arms
- 4
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Female Sprinters Without PFPS | – | –Elite adolescent female sprinters aged 15-17 years without current anterior knee pain or clinical findings consistent with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Participants underwent a single standardized assessment of dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility. No therapeutic or experimental intervention was administered. |
| Female Sprinters With PFPS | – | Other: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome StatusElite adolescent female sprinters aged 15-17 years diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome by a sports medicine physician. Participants underwent a single standardized assessment of dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility. No therapeutic or experimental intervention was administered. |
| Male Sprinters Without PFPS | – | –Elite adolescent male sprinters aged 15-17 years without current anterior knee pain or clinical findings consistent with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Participants underwent a single standardized assessment of dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility. No therapeutic or experimental intervention was administered. |
| Male Sprinters With PFPS | – | Other: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome StatusElite adolescent male sprinters aged 15-17 years diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome by a sports medicine physician. Participants underwent a single standardized assessment of dynamic Q-angle, trunk/core endurance, and lower-extremity flexibility. No therapeutic or experimental intervention was administered. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 15 to 17 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Child
- Study population
- Elite female and male adolescent sprinters aged 15-17 years who were actively competing in national or international sprint events. Participants were evaluated at the Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Clinic of the Adana Olympic Preparation Center, Provincial Directorate of Youth and Sports, Adana, Türkiye. Participants were classified according to biological sex and the presence or absence of patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Key inclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Female or male adolescent elite sprinters aged 15-17 years Minimum of two years of regular athletic training Participation in athletic training at least four days per week Possession of a valid track and field license Active participation in sprint events at the national or international level Ability to complete all clinical and biomechanical assessments Written informed consent from the participant and a parent or legal guardian
- Diagnosis of patellofemoral pain syndrome by a sports medicine physician Anterior knee pain localized to the patellofemoral region Positive patellar compression and grind test Anterior Knee Pain Scale score below 80 Visual Analog Scale pain score of at least 3
- No current anterior knee pain No clinical findings consistent with patellofemoral pain syndrome
Key exclusion criteria (1 listed)
- History of lower-extremity surgery Acute lower-extremity injury within the previous six months Notable musculoskeletal deformity Arthritis or chronic pain affecting the knee, hip, or ankle Neurological or systemic disease that could affect movement or physical performance Inability to complete the assessments because of excessive pain or insufficient cooperation Incomplete assessment data
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome StatusAlso: PFPS Status, Anterior Knee Pain StatusParticipants were classified as having patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) or not having PFPS based on a clinical assessment performed by a sports medicine physician. PFPS classification was based on anterior knee pain symptoms, positive patellofemoral clinical tests, an Anterior Knee Pain Scale score below 80, and a Visual Analog Scale pain score of at least 3. Biological sex was used as an additional grouping factor. No therapeutic, exercise, pharmacological, or experimental intervention was administered. | Other | Female Sprinters With PFPS, Male Sprinters With PFPS |
Primary outcome
Dynamic Q-Angle During the Step-Down Test (degrees)
Time frame: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)
Dynamic Q-angle was assessed during a standardized step-down task from a 16-cm platform using the DrGoniometer mobile application. Anatomical markers were placed over the anterior superior iliac spine, center of the patella, and tibial tuberosity. Two repetitions were recorded in the frontal plane, and the mean angle was used for analysis. In participants with PFPS, the symptomatic extremity was assessed; in participants without PFPS, the corresponding matched extremity was used.
4 secondary outcomes
Trunk/Core Endurance Test Duration (seconds)
Time frame: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)
Hamstring Flexibility - Straight Leg Raise Angle (degrees)
Time frame: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)
Hip Flexor Flexibility - Modified Thomas Test Angle (degrees)
Time frame: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)
Iliotibial Band and Tensor Fasciae Latae Flexibility - Ober Test Angle (degrees)
Time frame: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 20 Jul 2026.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
burcin ugur tosun study chair
Ministry of Youth and Sports, Olympic Preparation Center, Adana, Türkiye
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and Anterior Knee Pain Syndrome, run by Eastern Mediterranean University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
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 5 inclusion and 1 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: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 20 Jul 2026. 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 Turkey (Türkiye). 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?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Dynamic Q-Angle During the Step-Down Test (degrees) (time frame: Baseline (single assessment at study enrollment)). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
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 20 Jul 2026.