Comparison of the Effects of Vibration Technique and Resistive Exercise on Knee Pain and Proprioception in Patients with Chondromalacia Patellae

Background & Aims: Chondromalacia patella is one of the chronic dysfunctions of the patella femoral joint which is the most common anterior knee syndrome especially among the youth. Muscle weakness and proprioception deficit are the subsequent problems of this dysfunction. Thus, the aim of this study was the investigation and comparison of the effects of vibration training and resistive exercise on this disorder. Methods: In the present study, 35 men (mean ± standard deviation of: age = 22.6±2.9 years, height = 175.5±8.3 cm, and weight =77.6±9.3 kg) were selected via convenience sampling and randomly assigned to three groups, including the vibration technique (n=12), resistive exercise (n=12), and control (n=11). The first two groups followed their own specific protocol 3 days per week for 8 weeks, and were forbidden from participating in any sport or physical activity. Pain intensity and active angle reproduction error (AARE) for 45˚ knee flexion were assessed using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Biodex system. Results: The pain and AARE were decreased significantly in both experimental groups in comparison to the control group (P<0.001). However, in patients who performed vibration training, pain (P<0.001) and AARE (P0.001) decreased more significantly than those treated with resistive exercise. Conclusion: It can be concluded that both therapeutic interventions can reduce pain and improve proprioception in patients with chondromalacia patella; however, the vibration technique has more suitable effects.