The effect of patella taping on quadriceps strength and functional performance in normal subjects

Objective. To investigate the effect of patella taping on normal subjects. This was undertaken through the examination of isokinetic quadriceps strength and functional performance (hop distance), in an attempt to clarify the mechanism behind patella tapings reported success in the patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) patient population. The aim of the study is to examine the effect of patella taping on normal quadriceps function. Method. Forty asymptomatic females (mean age 20.4 ^ 1.9 years) had their single hop for distance and concentric quadriceps peak torque (on an isokinetic dynamometer at 1808/s) assessed under two conditions (with or without patella taping) using a same subject randomised repeated measures design. Results. Patella taping brought about a significant decrease in hop distance ðp 1⁄4 0:004Þ and a non-significant decrease in quadriceps concentric peak torque ðp 1⁄4 0:47Þ: Conclusion. Taping brought about a decrease in performance of normal subjects, this may be because of a subtle alteration in the extensor mechanism alignment causing it to function in less than optimal manner. This research supports the hypothesis that the mechanism by which patella taping has brought about reported improvements in PFPS patients is not solely related to a reduction in pain inhibition, but may involve an alteration in patella position and so efficient functioning of the extensor mechanism. q 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.