A Systematic Review of Clinical Practice Guidelines for Physical Therapist Management of Patellofemoral Pain

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review evaluate clinical practice guidelines for the physical therapist management patellofemoral pain. Methods Five electronic databases (CINAHL, Embase, Medline, Psychinfo, Cochrane Library) were searched from January 2013 October 2019. Additional search methods included searching websites that publish containing recommendations Characteristics extracted, including examination, interventions, and evaluation applicable practice. Quality assessment conducted using Appraisal Guidelines Research Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument, applicability examined AGREE Recommendation Excellence convergence across assessed. Results Four included. One guideline evaluated as higher quality provided most clinically set processes assess effectiveness interventions. Guideline-recommended interventions consistent exercise therapy, foot orthoses, patellar taping, patient education, combined did not recommend use electrotherapeutic modalities. Two manual therapy (in isolation), dry needling, bracing. Conclusion Recommendations higher-quality may conflict with routine This provides guidance clinicians deliver high-value Impact addresses an important gap between evidence in Lay Summary If you have kneecap pain, offers your provide examination processes, treatments, are recommended by high-quality guidelines.