ASSOCIATION BETWEEN PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN AND GASTROCNEMIUS TIGHTNESS AMONG CLUBFOOT PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: Clubfoot or talipes equinovarus is a deformity of the leg, ankle, and foot. The hindfoot varus, the forefoot adduction, the equinus, and the enlarged midfoot arch (cavus) are the characteristics of clubfoot. Patellofemoral pain is mostly associated with restricted flexibility of lower limb muscles.

Objective: To investigate the association between patellofemoral pain and gastrocnemius tightness among clubfoot patients.

Method: It was a cross-sectional study. The duration of the study was 6 months. Non-probability convenient sampling technique was used. The sample size was 158. Gastrocnemius tightness was assessed by measuring dorsiflexion angle with extended knee using a goniometer and patellofemoral pain (PFP) was assessed by using the Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale (AKPS).

Results: The mean age was 12.8 ± 3.74. The data showed that there were more males (66.5%) than females (33.5%). According to the findings, participants who had no gastrocnemius tightness (11°–20°) predominantly reported no knee pain, whereas those who had severe tightness (0°–5°) reported moderate to severe knee pain. Participants with mild to moderate tightness (6°–10°) also exhibited mild to severe pain. Statistically significant results were found by the Pearson Chi Square test (p = 0.000).

Conclusion: This study concluded that there is a significant association between patellofemoral pain and gastrocnemius tightness in clubfoot patients