Relationship between Duration of Patellofemorall Pain Syndrome and Patellar Alignment

Abstract

Introduction: Patellofemora l Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders. The cause of PFPS has been reported to be multifactorial. Patellar malalignments are accepted as the leading causes of PF pain and PF joint disorders. The purpose of the present study was to assess the relationship between duration of PFPS and patellar alignment. Method and Materials : The patellar alignment of participants was compared in three groups: patients with 2-3 month PFPS duration, patients with 12-15 months PFPS duration, and matched healthy participants. Congruence angle, Q angle, Patella height (Insall-Salvati index), Lateral patellar tilt angle, and Pain and Function score were measured among these three groups. Results: The patella height (Insall-Salvati index) (r= 0.32 ), lateral patellar tilt angle (r=0.28), Visual Analogy Scale (r=0.77), and function score (r=-0.80) correlated with duration of PFPS. The patella height (Insall-Salvati index), lateral patellar tilt angle, and pain in patients group with 12-15 months of PFPS duration were significantly greater and function score was less than those of the control group. The patella height (Insall-Salvati index) and pain in patients group with 2-3 months of PFPS duration were significantly greater and function score was less than those of the control group. There was no significant difference in other measurements among the three groups. Conclusions: It can be concluded that duration of PFPS affects alignment of patella and knee joint function score. Therefore, early and complete treatment of PFPS is recommended. Key words: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, Duration, Malalignment