Overview
This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of isokinetic training combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Participants aged 18 to 40 years.
- Clinical diagnosis of patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).
- Presence of anterior or retropatellar knee pain for at least 3 months.
- Pain provoked by at least two activities that increase patellofemoral joint load, including squatting, stair climbing, running, jumping, prolonged sitting, or kneeling.
- Average knee pain intensity of ≥3 on a 10-point visual analog scale (VAS) during aggravating activities.
- Ability to participate in exercise training and attend scheduled intervention sessions.
- Willingness to provide written informed consent.
Exclusion Criteria:
- History of knee surgery or significant trauma to the lower extremity within the previous 12 months.
- Clinical evidence of other knee disorders, including ligament injury, meniscal injury, patellar instability, osteoarthritis, or tendinopathy.
- Presence of neurological, cardiovascular, or systemic musculoskeletal disorders that may affect lower limb function or exercise participation.
- Current participation in other structured lower extremity rehabilitation or strength training programs.
- Contraindications to blood flow restriction training, including uncontrolled hypertension, vascular disease, thromboembolic disorders, or clotting abnormalities.
- Use of pain-relieving injections or surgical interventions for knee pain within the previous 6 months.
- Pregnancy.
- Inability to complete the assessment or intervention procedures.
