Influence of the Hip on Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

CONTEXT Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common conditions limiting athletes. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that dysfunction at the hip may be a contributing factor in PFPS. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE (1950-September 2010), CINAHL (1982-September 2010), and SPORTDiscus (1830-September 2010) were searched to identify relevant research to this report. STUDY SELECTION Studies were included assessing hip strength, lower extremity kinematics, or both in relation to PFPS were included. DATA EXTRACTION Studies included randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental designs, prospective epidemiology, case-control epidemiology, and cross-sectional descriptive epidemiology in a scientific peer-reviewed journal. RESULTS PFPS is associated with decreased hip strength, specifically at the abductors and external rotators. There is a correlation between PFPS and faulty hip mechanics (adduction and internal rotation). CONCLUSIONS There is a link between the strength and position of the hip and PFPS. These patients have a common deficit once symptomatic. Hip strengthening and a coordination program may be useful in a conservative treatment plan for PFPS.