Effectiveness of Elastic Resistance in Rehabilitation of Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: What Is the Evidence?

CONTEXT: Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is associated with muscle imbalance at the knee and hip. Therapeutic exercise is effective at reducing pain associated with PFPS. OBJECTIVE: To identify and analyze clinical trials of elastic resistance in patients with PFPS to determine its efficacy. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, CINAHL, and PEDro databases were searched for terms relevant to PFPS rehabilitation in patients aged 12 to 40 years. STUDY SELECTION: Only peer-reviewed clinical trials lasting at least 4 weeks and specifying the use of elastic resistance in their protocols were included. DATA EXTRACTION: Eight eligible studies were analyzed for design, sample, intervention, outcomes, and clinical application. RESULTS: The studies included in this review lacked high-quality design, often using exercise as a “quasi-control” condition. Most studies did not provide specific exercise prescription or progression. Although participants in each study reported significant improvements in pain, deficiencies in scientific design limit the conclusion. CONCLUSION: Elastic resistance exercise may reduce pain and improve function and strength in patients with PFPS.