Article

OBJECTIVE: To identify changes in impairments associated with functional and pain
outcome in patients with patello-femoral pain syndrome following a standardized
physiotherapy treatment. DESIGN: One group pre-post design. SUBJECTS:
Seventy-four patients (median age 27 years, 52% female) diagnosed with
patellofemoral pain syndrome and referred to physiotherapy treatment. METHODS:
Baseline measures included self-reported function and pain, which were the
dependent variables, and measures of independent variables: strength of
quadriceps, hip abduction and hip external rotation; length of hamstrings,
quadriceps, plantar flexors, iliotibial band/tensor fascia lata complex, and
lateral retinaculum; quality of movement, and fear-avoidance beliefs. Following
the baseline measurements, subjects participated in a standardized physiotherapy
program. Measurements were repeated at 2-month follow-up. Data were analyzed
using 2 forward regression models, the first using function outcome, and the
second using pain outcome as the criterion. Age, gender, height and weight were
controlled in the regression models. RESULTS: Change in fear-avoidance beliefs
about physical activity and change in gastrocnemius length predicted function
outcome. Change in fear-avoidance beliefs about physical activity and about work
predicted outcome of pain. CONCLUSION: Change in fear-avoidance beliefs about
physical activity was the strongest predictor of function and pain outcome. The
fact that patients who decreased their fear-avoidance beliefs improved function
and decreased pain indicates that perhaps fear-avoidance beliefs should be
targeted during the treatment of patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Langue : ANGLAIS