Comparison of Hip Muscle Strength between Normals and Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Patients

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is common problem among young and active individuals. The aetiology of PFPS has been attributed to biomechanical abnormalities. Hip muscle strength is a major contributing factor for alterations in patellofemoral joint.

Purpose of the study: To compare the hip muscle strength between normals and patellofemoral pain syndrome patients using push-pull dynamometer.

Materials and methodology: 60 subjects were taken. 30 were patellofemoral pain syndrome patients and 30 were normals (age, gender, BMI matched). They were allocated to 2 study groups;

Group A : subjects with PFPS

Group B : Normals (age, gender, BMI matched).

Hip muscle strength of all the hip muscle groups was assessed by Baseline push-pull dynamometer. Outcome measure was in the form of hip muscle strength in kgs.

Results: Unpaired 't'test was used to compare the hip muscle strength in kgs between normals and PFPS patients.

There was a significant difference between all the muscle groups. Major difference was seen in abductors, extensors and external rotators.

Repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare the hip muscle strength difference amongst the patient's hip muscle groups. Muscle strength deficit was maximum in external rotators followed by internal rotators, abductors, extensors, adductors and then flexors.

Conclusion: Hip muscle strength of PFPS patients is less when compared to the normals. Majorly affected muscles are abductors, extensors and internal rotators.