Changed Muscular Synergy of Specific Lower Limb Muscles in Subjects with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome during Walking

Abstract

Aims: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) refers to a range of conditions or anatomical irregularities that lead to pain in the front part of the knee, and it is one of the primary contributors to this type of discomfort. This study aims first to identify the muscle synergies of individuals with and without PFPS while walking, and then to analyze and compare their synergy patterns and associated activation coefficients throughout the gait cycle. Method and Materials: The statistical population of this study consisted of adults aged 25 to 35, divided into two groups: a healthy group (n = 12) and a group diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome (n = 9). The research utilized a force plate, a motion analysis system, and Electro Myo Graphy (EMG), adhering to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were analyzed through specialized software and statistical techniques, including HALS, frequency analysis, and t-tests. Findings: This groundbreaking research in Iran examined muscle synergies during walking among individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome, uncovering unique neural control patterns. The number of muscle synergies and the contribution of each lower limb muscle in the extracted synergies did not significantly differ between the control and affected groups (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: The absence of statistical significance may be attributed to the small sample size and inconsistencies in measurement techniques, underscoring the need for targeted rehabilitation that considers the impact of this condition on balance.