Once again, another study has been published examining hip strength in females with patellofemoral pain (PFP). The study by Khayambashi, et al is published in the January 2012 issue of the Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy.
The researchers recruited 28 females with PFP and randomly assigned them to an exercise group or control group. The exercise group performed hip abductor and hip external rotator strengthening exercises 3 times per week for 8 weeks. The control group was instructed to take 1000 mg of Omega-3 and 400 mg of calcium as a placebo. Both groups were allowed to take pain medication or anti-inflammatory medication as needed.
Outcomes measures included pain, health status and hip strength. Assessments were made at baseline, at 8 weeks post-intervention, and at 6 months post-intervention.
The results indicate significant changes in pain, strength, and health status in the exercise group as compared to the control group after 8 weeks. The exercise group maintained gains at the 6 month follow up period. No person dropped out of the study, and no detrimental effects were reported in either group.
This study supports the growing body of evidence that hip strength, particularly the hip abductors and external rotators, plays a major role in PFP. It is thought that these muscle groups help stabilize the thigh bone and don't allow the thigh bone to rotate internally. Internal rotation of the thigh is thought to change the forces around the knee cap and cause the pain associated with PFP.
If you are having knee pain, a visit to your physical therapist may be in order to help determine the cause of the problem. While some focus should be placed on the knee, be sure that your PT checks out the strength of your hips. The evidence indicates that hip weakness could be the culprit.
Quick Links:
