Limited Ankle Dorsiflexion and Effect on Single Limb Squats in Individuals With Patellofemoral Pain

Limited Ankle Dorsiflexion and Effect on Single Limb Squats in Individuals With Patellofemoral Pain: Interventions and Outcomes in a Randomized Clinical Trial

The purpose of this graduate student research study is to investigate the relationship between limited ankle dorsiflexion and the potential effects on a single limb squat task in the Patellofemoral/Knee Pain population.

Participants will undergo Covid screening prior to filling out consent form and PHI. Randomization will occur to create an experimental group and a minimal intervention group. Participants will complete two self-reported questionnaires on how their diagnosis affects functional activities. Dorsiflexion range of motion in a weight bearing position will be taken. Hip abductor strength on tested limb will be measure on isokinetic device. The Lateral Step Down test will be conducted for 6 trials on each participant, 3 with a heel wedge and 3 without, movement recorded, and graded using two motion capture devices. The experimental group will receive two interventions to increase dorsiflexion range of motion. The minimal intervention group will read and infographic and complete 5 minutes of treadmill walking. Each participant will then have their dorsiflexion measured again prior to completing another 3 trials of the Lateral Step Down test.

The minimal intervention group will read and infographic and complete 5 minutes of treadmill walking.

Participants will be lunging on a box with posterior ankle glide of 10 seconds times 5 sets. They will have 30 seconds rest between trials. Participant will have their ankle taped and then walk on a treadmill at a self-selected pace for 5 minutes.

Participants ankle will not be taped and they will walk on the treadmill for 5 minutes and receive education.

This test is used to assess a participant's available dorsiflexion range of motion in a weight bearing position. Furthermore, this places the participants hip, knee, and ankle into a flexed position which correlates with the squat tests we will be using.

The Index is a self-reported questionnaire that addresses the amount of pain a person may have during tasks such as running, jumping, and stair climbing.

Inclusion Criteria: History of active Patellofemoral Pain for at least 6 months No clinic based therapeutic interventions for a 6-month period prior to testing Females aged 18-59 years' old Limited ankle dorsiflexion as noted by <45degs using the weight bearing lunge test Exclusion Criteria: History of musculoskeletal surgery or fractures on the tested leg or lumbar spine that could affect their biomechanics during the study History of soft tissue or skeletal abnormalities in the tested limb Current knee effusion Resting pain greater than 5/10