A Development Of Neuromuscular Control Exercise Protocol Of The Knee With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): A Concept Paper

Abstract

Reestablishing neuromuscular control is a crucial component in the rehabilitation process especially in human joints. The main objective of neuromuscular control activities is to refocus an athlete’s awareness of peripheral sensations and process these signals into more coordinated motor strategies (Prentice, 2004). By establishing this component, the injured athlete will be able to control the muscle activities and protect the injured joint from further injuries. Based on current research, the quadriceps strengthening exercise and taping have been used to improve neuromuscular control of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) patients since the main focus of rehabilitation for (PFPS) is more on strengthening quadriceps muscle, regaining optimal patellar positioning and tracking. However, the effectiveness of this procedure may be questionable due to overlapping activities and protocols. Therefore a specific neuromuscular control exercise protocol (NCEP) will be developed focusing on individuals who had PFPS. This NCEP will involve a series of customized preprogrammed exercise protocols on Balance Trainer Software Suite using BT3 Balance Platform (HurLabs, Tampere, Finland) and will be applied to athletes who experienced PFPS where the effectiveness of this NCEP will then be evaluated.