Effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on patellofemoral pain: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

IntroductionPatellofemoral Pain (PFP) is a common dysfunction that can compromise the performance of daily activities. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has been proposed as a complementary tool in the therapeutic approach. ObjectiveTo analyze the effects of adding NMES to therapeutic exercises in women with PFP. MethodsRandomized controlled trial involving 34 women with PFP (mean age 23.8 ± 4.1), randomly assigned to two groups: exercises combined with NMES (ESG) and exercises only (ExG). The ExG followed an exercise protocol, while the ESG performed the same exercises combined with NMES. Interventions were performed twice a week for eight weeks. Primary outcome measures included pain and functional disability, while secondary outcomes encompassed electromyographic activity of the quadriceps and hip abductors, along with isokinetic performance. Assessments were performed before the intervention, after 4 and 8 weeks from the start of the protocol and 8 weeks after the conclusion of the treatment. ResultsWe did not observe difference between the groups in any of the analyzed variables. Both groups showed a reduction in pain and an improvement in functional disability during intragroup comparisons. ConclusionA reduction in pain and an improvement in functional disability were observed; however, there was no additional effect of NMES. Trial registrationNCT03918863.