Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

33

Review clinical trials related to Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. Use filters to narrow results by trial status, phase, treatment, biological sex and sponsor.

Condition / disease
Location
Status: Not yet recruiting

Popliteus Muscle Release Versus Patellofemoral Mobilization in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

This study will be conducted to compare the effect of popliteus muscle release and patellofemoral mobilization on pain intensity, function, and quadriceps muscle strength in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome?

Participants needed: 48
Trial details
Age: 18-30Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Cairo UniversityUpdated: Jul 13, 2026
Eligibility criteria

Male and female participants aged 18-30 years. [+4]

Clinical, x-ray, or MRI findings indicative of other specific pathology includin... [+4]

Status: Recruiting

MRI Study of Musculoskeletal Function

This study will use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound images to study how muscles, tendons, and bones work together to cause motion. The procedure is one of several tools being developed to characterize normal and impaired musculoskeletal function, with the goal of developing improved methods of diagnosis and treatment of movement disorders. Healthy normal volunteers must be age 5 to unlimited, with or without joint impairment, may be eligible for this study. Volunteers with joint impairment may not have serious injury to the joint being studied, previous surgery on the joint being studied, or extreme pain at the joint being studied. MRI uses a strong magnet and radio waves to create images of the inside of the body. The subject lies on a long narrow couch inside a metal cylinder (the scanner) for up to 3 hours while the scanner gathers data. Earplugs are worn to muffle loud noises caused by electrical switching of radiofrequency circuits used in the scanning process. A special pad or tube may be placed over or around the region being scanned to improve the quality of the data. The subject will be asked to repeatedly move a specific joint, such as the knee, for brief periods, usually less than 5 minutes. The subject can communicate via intercom with the person performing the study at all times during the procedure, and may request to stop the study at any time. ...

Participants needed: 750
Trial details
Age: 5-95Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC)Updated: Jun 30, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Must be between the ages of 5-95 years. [+8]

Any relevant medical problems [+4]

Status: Recruiting

Effects of Kinesio Taping Versus McConnell Taping on Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.

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.

Participants needed: 80
Trial details
Age: 18-50Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Cairo UniversityUpdated: Jun 26, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Anterior or retropatellar pain for a minimum of 3 months during functional activ... [+3]

Meniscal or ligamentous injury [+3]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Core Stability Exercises Versus Proprioceptive Training on Pain and Function in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

This study will be conducted to investigate the effect of core stability exercises versus proprioceptive training in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Participants needed: 63
Trial details
Age: 18-40Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Cairo UniversityUpdated: Jun 24, 2026
Eligibility criteria

A confirmed diagnosis of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) based on clinical a... [+5]

Presence of chronic pain conditions unrelated to Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (P... [+5]

Status: Not yet recruiting

High-Intensity Laser Acupuncture for Treating Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is among the most prevalent forms of knee discomfort. The main complaint is typically anterior knee pain, which gets worse while jumping, bending knee, going up or down stairs, or sitting for long periods of time with bent knee. Teens and early adulthood are commonly affected by patellofemoral pain syndrome, with a higher frequency in females. In healthy general populations, the prevalence of patellofemoral pain syndrome is 22.7%, and in teens, it is 28.9%.

Participants needed: 60
Trial details
Age: 18-25Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Cairo UniversityUpdated: Jun 17, 2026
Eligibility criteria

Patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome (positive Clarkes sign and Waldron te... [+4]

Physiotherapy in the last 12 months [+8]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Relationship Between Knee Pain And Proprioception During Single Leg Squat In Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

This study will be conducted to investigate the relationship between knee joint pain intensity and joint position sense accuracy in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) in a single-leg squat position.

Participants needed: 82
Trial details
Age: 18-35Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Cairo UniversityUpdated: Jun 11, 2026
Eligibility criteria

Age ranges from 18-35 years [+5]

Knee pain is more than 6 score on ANPRS. [+4]

Status: Not yet recruiting

High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Therapy on Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Evaluate the effect of High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Therapy on pain, quadriceps strength, and quality of life in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome

Participants needed: 60
Trial details
Age: 18-45Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Middle East UniversityUpdated: Jun 8, 2026
Eligibility criteria

Clinical diagnosis of patellofemoral pain syndrome (anterior or peripatellar kne... [+1]

History of previous knee surgery or trauma (e.g., ligamentous laxity, meniscal t... [+4]

Status: Recruiting

Popliteus Muscle Release Versus Kinesio Taping

The aim of the current study is to compare the effect of popliteus muscle release and Kinesio taping on pain intensity, function, dynamic balance, and quadriceps muscle strength in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Participants needed: 48
Trial details
Age: 18-30Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Cairo UniversityUpdated: May 28, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Patients of both genders with an age range of 18-30 years old. [+3]

Clinical, x-ray, or MRI findings indicative of other specific pathology, includi... [+4]

Status: Recruiting

Isokinetic Training With Blood Flow Restriction for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of isokinetic training combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).

Participants needed: 60
Trial details
Age: 18-40Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Nanjing Mingzhou Rehabilitation HospitalUpdated: May 22, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Participants aged 18 to 40 years. [+6]

History of knee surgery or significant trauma to the lower extremity within the... [+7]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Effects of Isometric, Isotonic, and Eccentric VMO Exercises in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common musculoskeletal condition characterized by anterior knee pain, especially during activities such as stair climbing, squatting, running, and prolonged sitting. Weakness or delayed activation of the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) muscle is considered an important contributing factor in the development of PFPS. This study aims to compare the effects of three different types of VMO strengthening exercises (isometric, isotonic, and eccentric) applied within the terminal knee extension range (0-30°) on pain, functional performance, and muscle architecture in individuals with PFPS. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three exercise groups. All participants will receive a standardized physiotherapy program, including heat therapy, TENS, and therapeutic ultrasound, followed by group-specific VMO strengthening exercises. The intervention will be performed three times per week for 8 weeks. Outcomes will be assessed before and after the intervention and will include pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale), functional performance (WOMAC, 30-second sit-to-stand test, and stair test), and muscle architecture parameters measured by ultrasound imaging. The results of this study are expected to provide evidence for optimizing rehabilitation strategies in individuals with PFPS.

Participants needed: 90
Trial details
Age: 18-50Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Firat UniversityUpdated: May 12, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Aged between 18 and 40 years [+5]

History of knee trauma or surgery [+6]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Distinct Directional Postural Stability Deficits Across Lower Limb Musculoskeletal Disorders

Lateral ankle sprain (LAS) and patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) are common musculoskeletal conditions associated with postural instability. However, the direction-specific nature of balance deficits and comparative patterns across these conditions remain unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study is to compare overall, mediolateral, and anteroposterior postural stability indices among individuals with LAS, PFPS, and healthy controls using the Biodex Balance System

Participants needed: 90
Trial details
Age: 20-30Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Cairo UniversityUpdated: Apr 9, 2026
Eligibility criteria

Not listed

Status: Not yet recruiting

Stabilization vs Corrective Exercise in PFP

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of a Functional Stabilization training program (FST) and a comprehensive corrective exercise program in PF pain and DKV.

Participants needed: 60
Trial details
Age: 18-35Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Ahram Canadian UniversityUpdated: Mar 11, 2026
Eligibility criteria

Patellofemoral pain lasting > 6 weeks [+3]

Previous knee surgery; ligament/meniscus injury; or lower-limb fractures [+3]

Status: Not yet recruiting

"Mulligan Technique vs Phonophoresis With Chitosan for Patellofemoral Pain"

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common knee condition causing pain and dysfunction. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of two physical therapy treatments for PFPS: Mulligan mobilization with movement technique versus phonophoresis with chitosan gel. Forty-five participants with patellofemoral pain syndrome will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) Mulligan technique group, (2) Phonophoresis with chitosan gel group, or (3) Control group receiving standard physical therapy exercises. Each group will receive treatment 3 times per week for 4 weeks. The researchers want to determine which treatment is more effective in improving neuromuscular control, reducing pain, and improving function in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Participants will be assessed before and after the treatment period. This study may help physical therapists and healthcare providers choose the most effective treatment approach for patients with patellofemoral pain.

Participants needed: 45
Trial details
Age: 18-35Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Ahram Canadian UniversityUpdated: Mar 3, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Insidious onset of anterior knee pain [+8]

Traumatic injury (e.g., dislocation, fracture, ligament or meniscus pathology) [+3]

Status: Recruiting

The Effects of Dry Needling on Patients With Knee Pain

This study is testing the effectiveness of "dry needling" for pain management and on muscle strength and leg function for those with knee pain. Dry needling consists of small, monofilament needles that are administered directly into the tissue and manipulated to make the muscle relax for pain relief. This technique is used to treat dysfunctions in skeletal muscle and connective tissue to help diminish pain, reduce impairments of body structure and restore function.

Participants needed: 120
Trial details
Age: 18-40Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Ohio State UniversityUpdated: Feb 25, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

18-40 years-of-age [+2]

Unable to provide consent [+12]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Sports Rehabilitation Therapy for Knee Joint Sports Injuries: A Case Study of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury and Patellar Chondromalacia

The primary objective of this clinical trial is to verify the superiority of a digital diagnosis and treatment system for the conservative management of knee sports injuries-based on wearable sensors, machine vision, and large language models-over conventional off-site rehabilitation in terms of functional outcomes. The secondary objectives include assessing safety and adverse events, compliance and feasibility, algorithm evaluation accuracy and usability, and generating clinical evidence to support the registration of a Class II medical device. Participants will undergo a six-month intervention comprising knee muscle strengthening exercises, lower limb balance and stability training, and stretching exercises. Follow-up assessments will be conducted every four weeks, recording IKDC and Lysholm subjective knee function scores, VAS pain scores, SF-36 quality of life scores, knee range of motion, and MRI findings.

Participants needed: 160
Trial details
Age: 18-50Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Peking University Third HospitalUpdated: Feb 20, 2026Locations: 4
Eligibility criteria

Age 18-50 years. [+6]

Body Mass Index (BMI) less than 18.5 or greater than 35 kg/m²; [+5]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Body Awareness-Based Rehabilitation on Physical Psychosocial Status in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a common knee condition that causes pain around or behind the kneecap, especially during activities such as walking, climbing stairs, squatting, or prolonged sitting. This condition can affect daily activities, movement quality, and psychological well-being. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of a body awareness-based sensorimotor rehabilitation program on pain behavior, movement quality, and psychosocial outcomes in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving body awareness-based sensorimotor rehabilitation or a control group receiving conventional physiotherapy exercises. The rehabilitation program will focus on improving body awareness, posture, balance, and controlled movement patterns. Outcomes will be assessed before and after the intervention period. The main outcomes include changes in pain-related behaviors, movement quality, and psychosocial status. The results of this study are expected to provide evidence on whether body awareness-based sensorimotor rehabilitation can be an effective approach for managing patellofemoral pain and improving both physical and psychological aspects of function.

Participants needed: 60
Trial details
Age: 18-45Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Recep Tayyip Erdogan UniversityUpdated: Feb 13, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Adults aged 18-45 years. [+5]

History of knee surgery within the past 12 months. [+6]

Status: Recruiting

EFFECT OF SAPHENOUS NERVE RELEASE ON PATIENTS WITH PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN SYNDROME

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a frequent cause of anterior knee pain in young, physically active individuals, especially females, and is commonly managed with quadriceps and hip-focused exercises. However, the role of neural factors has been largely overlooked. The saphenous nerve, which supplies sensation to the anteromedial knee, may become irritated or entrapped and contribute to pain and neuromuscular dysfunction in PFPS. This study suggests that manual therapy targeting the saphenous nerve could improve pain, function, and balance, providing a more holistic approach to PFPS rehabilitation.

Participants needed: 36
Trial details
Age: 18-35Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Cairo UniversityUpdated: Jan 6, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Knee replacement [+3]

Status: Recruiting

Emovi 3D Knee Assessment Device Intervention for Operational Readiness

This is a randomized clinical trial investigating the use of the Emovi Knee Kinesiography information in the treatment of anterior knee pain in physical therapy.

Participants needed: 180
Trial details
Age: 18-50Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Womack Army Medical CenterUpdated: Jul 16, 2025Locations: 2
Eligibility criteria

Age 18-50 [+2]

Pregnancy [+5]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Muscle Energy Technique With and Without Patellar Inferior Glide in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions among adolescents and adults with knee complaints, accounting for approximately 25% of knee disorders diagnosed in sports medical clinics. While the etiology of PFPS is suggested to be multifactorial, several contributing factors such as lower knee extensors strength, quadriceps imbalance, weak hip abductors and overuse have been identified.

Participants needed: 36
Trial details
Age: 20-40Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Riphah International UniversityUpdated: Jul 14, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Individuals with age 20-40Years [+4]

History of patellofemoral dislocation [+6]

Status: Recruiting

BFR Training on Muscle Morphology

This randomized clinical trial study compares high-load eccentric training (HL-Et), sham LL-BFRt, and low-load blood flow restriction (LL-BFRt) in sportsmen. The primary inquiries it seeks to address are: Is LL-BFR superior to HL-Et and sham LL-BFRt in terms of improving muscle morphology? Is LL-BFR a more effective Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and ACL injury preventive than HL-Et and sham LL-BFRt? The three intervention groups that will be randomly assigned to participants are LL-BFRt, sham LL-BFRt, and HL-Et. Participants are expected to carry out: Participants in LL-BFRt will be required to perform LL eccentric training at 30% of their repetition maximum (RM) and 70% of their artery occlusion pressure (AOP). This training will include stairs, single leg squat, and single leg deadlift. Participants in HL-Et will be required to perform LL eccentric training at 70% of their maximum number of repetitions (RM). In order to determine whether muscular morphology and the prevention of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and ACL injury improve following the interventions and follow-up, researchers will compare LL-BFRt, sham LL-BFRt, and HL-Et.

Participants needed: 75
Trial details
Age: 15-35Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Udayana UniversityUpdated: Jun 29, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Being between the ages of 15 and 35 [+4]

Having a tumor, cancer, vena thromboembolic disease, obesity, diabetes, hyperten... [+1]

Status: Recruiting

Comparison Between the Effects of Mulligan and Maitland Mobilization on Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

This study is a randomised control trial and the purpose of this study is to investigate and compare the "Effects of Maitland mobilizations and Mulligan Mobilization With Movement (MWM) in patients with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Participants needed: 40
Trial details
Age: 18-40Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Foundation University IslamabadUpdated: Jun 18, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Referred patients from rehabilitation, orthopedic and rheumatology department [+14]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Effect of Specific Versus General Hamstring Stretch on Clinical Outcomes in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)

This randomized, Single-blind, parallel-group trial will compare the effects of three hamstring stretching interventions-general hamstring Muscle Energy Technique (MET), medial hamstring MET, and lateral hamstring MET-each combined with standardized TENS and progressive hip/knee strengthening, on hamstring flexibility (knee-extension ROM), anterior knee pain (Arabic Kujala score), pain intensity visual analogue scale (VAS), and lower-limb strength (hand-held dynamometer) in adults with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).

Participants needed: 60
Trial details
Age: 18-37Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Cairo UniversityUpdated: Jun 15, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Anterior or retropatellar knee pain lasting at least three months [+4]

Previous knee surgery [+4]

Status: Recruiting

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

Participants needed: 24
Trial details
Age: 20-40Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Riphah International UniversityUpdated: Mar 13, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Age group between 20 to 40 years [+5]

History of knee surgery in the past year. [+5]

Status: Recruiting

Comparison of IASTM and Muscle Energy Technique in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.

The aim of this randomized controlled trial is to compare the effect of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and muscle energy technique on iliotibial band tightness on pain, range of motion and functional mobility in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Participants needed: 48
Trial details
Age: 18-35Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Riphah International UniversityUpdated: Feb 21, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

• Age between 18 and 35 years [+6]

• Any meniscal or ligament tears of knee. [+5]

Status: Recruiting

Effect of Core Exercises on Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

the goal of this interventional study is to Investigate the effect of core strengthening exercises on pain, strength, function, and balance in patients with PFPS.

Participants needed: 44
Trial details
Age: 18-35Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Cairo UniversityUpdated: Jan 3, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Patients of both genders with an age range of 18- 35 years old. [+5]

Traumatic patellar subluxation or dislocation. [+5]