Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background: Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common musculoskeletal pain condition, especially in females. Decreased hip muscle strength has been implicated as a contributing factor. The alignment of the lower extremity is important to the forces transmitted through the lower extremity and the patellofemoral joint, yet the relationships between eccentric hip muscle strength and lower extremity alignment are not known. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate if there is any relationship between eccentric hip muscles torque and static hip alignment measures in patient with unilateral PFPS. Methods: Fifty one patients (one group) had participated in this study. With age ranged from eighteen to thirty five years. Each patient was assessed for static hip alignment measures (femoral neck torsion using plastic standard goniometer and pelvic tilting using PALM (PALpation Meter)) and eccentric torque of hip abductors and external rotators muscles using Biodex system 3 isokinetic dynamometer. Result: the results showed fair negative association between eccentric hip external rotators torque and femoral anteversion, but there was no significant association between eccentric hip abductors torque and (anterior pelvic tilting and femoral anteversion), and eccentric hip external rotators torque and anterior pelvic tilting in patient with unilateral PFPS. Conclusion: Increased femoral neck anteversion can predict decreased eccentric hip external rotators muscle torque in patient with PFPS. On the other hand, no association between eccentric strength of the hip musculature and anterior pelvic tilt

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