A Study on the Effectiveness of Ankle Dorsiflexion Range of Motion Training in Patients With Patellofemoral Joint Pain.

Launched by TIANJIN UNIVERSITY OF SPORT · Apr 25, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how ankle flexibility exercises can help young adults who experience knee pain, specifically around the kneecap, known as patellofemoral pain (PFP). Researchers believe that having limited ability to lift the toes toward the shin might make this knee pain worse. The goal of the study is to find out if adding ankle exercises to regular knee-strengthening workouts can improve pain and function for active adults aged 18-30 with PFP and limited ankle movement.

To participate, individuals must be between 18 and 30 years old, have been diagnosed with PFP, and show limited ankle flexibility. They should also be physically active at least three times a week. The study will involve 64 participants who will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will do standard knee exercises plus ankle flexibility training, while the other group will only do the knee exercises. Over eight weeks, both groups will work with physiotherapists, and researchers will measure changes in knee pain, ankle flexibility, and muscle coordination. This trial could lead to a simple and cost-effective way to help people with PFP get back to their favorite activities without as much pain.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Aged 18-30 years
• • Diagnosed with patellofemoral pain (PFP) per clinical guidelines (anterior knee pain aggravated by ≥2 activities: running, squatting, stair climbing)
• • Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) \<10° (measured via goniometer in weight-bearing)
• • BMI 18.5-28 kg/m²
• • Engage in regular physical activity (≥3 sessions/week)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Ankle fractures
• • Achilles tendon rupture
• • Rheumatoid arthritis
• • Gout, or systemic diseases
• • Prior knee/ankle surgeries
• • Concurrent lower limb injuries (e.g., ligament tears, meniscal pathology)
• • Neurological disorders affecting mobility
• • Participation in other lower limb rehabilitation programs within 3 months