Medial contact and smaller plantar loads characterize individuals with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome during stair descent
Received 18 June 2009; received in revised form 26 October 2009; accepted 9 November 2009. published online 14 December 2009.
Abstract
Objectives
To investigate plantar pressure distribution in individuals with and without Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome during the support phase of stair descent.
Design
Observational case–control study.
Participants
30 young adults with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and 44 matched controls.
Main outcome measures
Contact area, peak pressure and pressure–time integral (Novel Pedar-X system) were evaluated in six plantar areas (medial, central and lateral rearfoot; midfoot; medial and lateral forefoot) during stair descent.
Results
Contact area was greater in the Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Group at medial rearfoot (p = 0.019) and midfoot (p < 0.001). Subjects with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome presented smaller peak pressures (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
The pattern of plantar pressure distribution during stair descent in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome subjects was different from controls. This seems to be related to greater medial rearfoot and midfoot support. Smaller plantar loads found in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome subjects during stair descent reveal a more cautious motor pattern in a challenging task.
aLaboratory of Biomechanics of the Human Movement and Posture, Physical Therapy, Speech and Occupational Therapy Department, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
bOrthopedics Clinic, University Hospital, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
Corresponding author. Laboratory of Biomechanics of the Human Movement and Posture, Physical Therapy, Speech and Occupational Therapy Department, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Rua:Cipotânea, 51, Cidade Universitária, 05360-160 São Paulo, SP, Brazil. Tel.: +55 11 3091 7459; fax: +55 11 3091 7462.
ABSTRACT