Orthopedic massage protocol for post ACL reconstruction patellofemoral pain syndrome
Abstract
The intent of this study is to determine the effectiveness of orthopedic massage in the rehabilitation of post anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). The primary complications following surgical repair of the ACL and classified as PFPS are hamstring flexion contracture and quadriceps weakness, leading to patellofemoral dysfunction and retropatellar pain. Treatment included lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy including trigger point release, muscle energy techniques and cross-fiber friction. Orthopedic physical assessment tests were used to track effectiveness of massage as well as subjective reporting on pain level and function. Results of this study showed a decrease in pain levels, hamstring flexion contracture, and lateral tracking of the patella. Orthopedic massage was determined to be an effective complimentary therapy in the treatment of PFPS.Articles published in this journal are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 License (see http://creativecommons.org/ and http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/ ). Accordingly, the following conditions apply: (a) Copyright for articles published in this journal is retained by authors, with first publication rights granted to the journal. (b) By virtue of their appearance in this open-access journal, articles are free to use, with proper attribution, in educational and other non-commercial settings. (c) Derivative works are not allowed in that a user may not alter, transform, or add additional content to an article published in this journal.