Knee flexion during stair ambulation is altered in individuals with patellofemoral pain

Abstract

Reduced knee flexion is a logical gait adaptation for individuals with patellofemoral pain (PFP) to lessen the patellofemoral joint reaction force and minimise pain during stair ambulation. This gait adaptation may be related to the co-ordination of individual vasti components. Purpose: This study investigated the amount of stance-phase knee flexion in individuals with (n=48) and without (n=18) PFP using a cross-sectional design. The relationship between stance-phase knee flexion and onset timing of individual vasti activity was also examined. Method: Stance-phase knee flexion was measured in 2-dimensions using a PEAK movement analysis system during stair ascent and descent. Individuals with..