Issn Print: 0195-9131
Publication Date: 1997/05/01
TREATMENT METHOD FOR PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS1395
Excerpt
Purpose: Patellotemoral pain (PFP) is one of the most common knee pathologies effecting one out of every four people in the world. To date, treatment methods and clinical results have been inconsistent and vary widely in technique and protocols. This presentation will describe and provide information regarding a new brace and treatment method shown to eliminate PFP and return patients to functional and athletic activities.Description: The OnTrack™ treatment method consists of a tape patch, neoprene cuff, neoprene strap, VMO activator and a patient education videotape. The patella is realigned in the interchondylar grcove by attaching the strap directly over the patella and attaching it to the cuff at the posterior surface of the knee. After careful evaluation and documentation of the patella malalignments, the strap is used to control and change the patella position. The strap position is based on the patella orientation examination. Specific manual therapy and therapeutic exercise programs complete the treatment method and provide long term relief of PFP. Summary of Experience: This treatment method has been shown clinically to reduce patellofemoral symptoms. Results of clinical trials, radiograph Merchant views and Kinematic MRI studies will be presented. In 1994 clinical trials research reported significantly fewer pain responses for all 10 functional activities while wearing the OnTrack™ brace compared to both the standard brace and no brace conditions (p<.005). Additionally, clinical observations of increased quadriceps strength and improved patellar orientation were noted while wearing the OnTrack™ brace. Results indicate that the OnTrack™ system is effective in controlling PFP symptoms during functional activities. Utilizing this treatment approach combined with a comprehensive therapeutic exercise program, long term pain relief has been observed. Clinical Relevance: This system is advantageous over other braces because of its attachment directly to the patella, ability to put a constant stretch on the lateral retinaculum and extensive therapeutic exercise component. The OnTrack™ system has no disadvantages of taping methods such as patient reproduction of taping procedure, loss of effectiveness with activity, and skin breakdown.
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