ABSTRACT
Background: Patello-femoral pain syndrome is a very common complaint seen in adolescence and young adults characterized by pain around and behind the patella. There has been prevalence of trigger points in the quadriceps leading to disruption of the VMO/VL firing pattern due to muscle inhibition by pain. Current studies suggest the use of strengthening exercises for hip and knee not focusing on releasing the trigger points. Releasing these trigger points could give additional benefit to the patient and can also be employed along with other conventional therapies. Purpose of the study: To find out which treatment method gives faster results and works directly on the pain and function of the patient. Objectives: To assess the immediate effect of Dry Needling Vs Ultrasound on releasing Trigger points in Quadriceps in patients with Patello-femoral Pain Syndrome on pain and knee/lower extremity function. Study Design: Randomized Control trail Setting: OPD setting. Participants: 70 patients with chronic anterior knee pain, without any ligament, bony or sensory involvement around the knee. Main outcome measures: Numerical Pain rating scale and Pressure Algometer. Results: In the ultrasound group there was a change of 38.60% seen in NRPS post values with a mean difference of 2.21±1.21 and for pressure algometer a change of 36.23% was seen with a mean difference of 3.08±4.40. In the dry needling group there was a change of 64.53% seen in NRPS post values with a mean difference of 3.07±1.48 and for pressure algometer a change of 56.86% was seen with a mean difference of 8.36±6.90. When compared within group dry needling had a better effect than ultrasound on both NRPS and Pressure algomter. Conclusion: The current study indicates that Dry needling is more effective than ultrasound for reducing pain and increasing functional outcome in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.