Effectiveness of static quadriceps stretching in individuals with patellofemoral joint pain.

Peeler J, Anderson JE        

The objective of this study was to determine if a 3-week static stretching program would increase quadriceps muscle flexibility in patellofemoral joint pain syndrome (PJPS) individuals. 83 participants were sorted into normal and PJPS groups via orthopaedic assessment of knee pain and function, and their quadriceps flexibility was evaluated. All subjects completed a 3-week static quadriceps stretching program. Flexibility, knee pain, and function were then reassessed. The authors conclude that this study confirms the effectiveness of a 3-week static stretching regimen for enhancing quadriceps flexibility and knee joint function, but fails to demonstrate a statistical relationship between quadriceps flexibility and the severity of knee pain and joint dysfunction in a PJPS population.

Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, 2007, 17(4), 234-41

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