Evaluation of Patellofemoral alignment in patellofemoral pain syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most frequentl musculoskeletal disorders. The cause of PFPS has been reported to be multifactorial. Patellar malalignments are accepted as the leading cause of PF pain and PF joint disorders. The purpose of the present study was to compare the patellar alignment between subjects with patellofemorall pain syndrome and healthy subjects. Patellar alignment was compared in two groups. Twenty five patients with 12-15 months of PFPS and 25 matched healthy subjects were selected to take part in the study. Congruence angle, Patella height, and Lateral patellar tilt angle were measured by radiographic images. Also, quadriceps angle was measured clinically. The patella alta and lateral patellar tilt angle were significantly greater in patients group compared with those in the healthy group. There was no significant difference in Q angle and Congruence angle between the two groups. Delays in treatment of patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome provide direction changes of patellar alignment. Therefore, to prevent further changes to the patellar alignment in these patients, early resolving of the possible predisposing factors is essential.