Tele-rehabilitation for Recreational Athletes With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

This study is a randomized clinical trial designed to evaluate the usability and effectiveness of a tele-rehabilitation program in recreational athletes with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS). A total of 26 participants aged 18-35 years with unilateral PFPS will be randomly allocated into either a conventional physiotherapy group or a tele-rehabilitation group. Both groups will receive the same evidence-based exercise protocol comprising stretching, strengthening, balance, and functional exercises over a four-week period; however, the intervention group will perform the exercises remotely using the Physitrack mobile application with regular virtual supervision and progress monitoring, while the control group will receive face-to-face physiotherapy sessions. Primary outcome measures will include pain intensity assessed by the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), knee range of motion measured using a universal goniometer, and quality of life evaluated using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). The usability and patient satisfaction of the tele-rehabilitation platform will be assessed using the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ). The findings of this study will determine whether tele-rehabilitation is a feasible, user-friendly, and effective alternative to conventional physiotherapy for improving clinical outcomes and rehabilitation accessibility in recreational athletes with PFPS.

Inclusion Criteria: * Recreational athletes * age between 18 and 35 * Males and females * Unilateral Anterior knee pain between 3 to 6 on NPRS and retro patellar pain brought on by squatting, knee flexion, climbing, descending stairs, and extended sitting * At least one month of knee pain * Positive Apprehension test * Can access the internet and smart phone * Kujala questionnaire scale Exclusion Criteria: * Knee meniscus, ligament, and tendon injuries * Knee effusion * Dislocation of the patella, subluxation, and fractures * Recent Surgery or fracture of the affected knee * Neuromuscular, metabolic, and rheumatologic disorders. * Who does not sign the consent form?