Affiliations: [a] Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
of the Hospital Center of Base Queen Astrid, Brussels, Belgium | [b] University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of
Rehabilitation Sciences & Physiotherapy, University of Ghent, Ghent,
Belgium | [c] Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiotherapy
& Physical Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium | [d] Royal Military Academy, Medical Department, Brussels,
Belgium
Note: [] Address for correspondence: CPN Damien Van Tiggelen, Hospital
Center of Base Queen Astrid, Dept. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation,
Bruynstraat 2, 1120 Brussels, Belgium. Fax: +32 2 264 47 23; E-mail:
damien.vantiggelen@mil.be
Abstract: Objectives: To explore the role of muscular strength and imbalance
as predisposing factors in the development of anterior knee pain syndrome
(AKPS). Methods: 96 male military recruits without history of knee pain
volunteered for the study. Each volunteer underwent an isokinetic test prior to
the start of a strenuous training program (approximately 8 to 12 hours/day for
6 weeks). The isokinetic test consisted of concentric contractions of the knee
flexors and extensors at 60°/s and 240°/s. A detailed history and
clinical examination of the patellofemoral joint was performed on each recruit.
Independent sample t-tests were used to compare the isokinetic muscle
parameters in recruits who developed AKPS during the training (pathological
group) and in those who did not (control group). Binary logistic regression
analysis was used to define the predictive outcome of anthropometrics and the
isokinetic parameters for the development of AKPS. Results: 31 recruits developed AKPS. Absolute and bodyweight
normalized peak extensor torque at 60°/s was significantly lower in the
pathological group in comparison to the control group. Significant lower peak
torque/BMI (Body Mass Index) were also indicated at both velocities. Recruits
who developed AKPS had a shorter stature. No regression model could be set up
to give any predictive value to the analyzed parameters. Conclusions: Recruits with shorter stature and lower quadriceps
strength are more prone to develop AKPS during BMT. However, as the etiology of
AKPS is multifactorial these parameters alone may not suffice to predict the
occurrence of this pathology. On the other hand, the results of this study
emphasize the importance of the reinforcement of quadriceps strength in the
treatment and prevention of AKPS.
