Effects of Physiotherapeutic Rehabilitation Interventions on Functionality and Pain in Individuals with Patellar Chondropathy: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Natalia Cristina Azevedo Queiroz, Ulbiramar Correia da Silva Filho, Helder Rocha da Silva Araujo, Fernanda Grazielle da Silva Azevedo Nora* and Raphael Martins da Cunha

Objective: To analyze the impact of physiotherapeutic rehabilitation interventions on pain, function, and biomechanical outcomes in adults diagnosed with patellar chondropathy or patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), through an integrative synthesis of studies published between 2010 and 2023.

Methods: This integrative review followed the methodological framework of Whittemore and Knafl (2005) and the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Searches were conducted in seven electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, PEDro, LILACS, and SciELO), using controlled descriptors related to patellofemoral pain, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, and biomechanical investigations assessing physiotherapeutic interventions in adults with PFPS. Methodological quality was appraised using the PEDro scale, and data were analyzed through structured narrative synthesis due to heterogeneity in intervention protocols.

Results: A total of 1,247 records were identified, with 14 studies meeting inclusion criteria, encompassing 631 participants. Many trials demonstrated moderate to high methodological quality (PEDro ≥6). Interventions combining hip and knee strengthening yielded superior effects on pain reduction (average decrease of 40–70% on the VAS) and functional improvement compared to isolated quadriceps training. Protocols integrating proximal and distal kinetic chain exercises, closed kinetic chain activities, and neuromuscular re-education produced the most consistent outcomes. Studies with 8–12 weeks of training showed the greatest durability of results. Adjunctive therapies such as McConnell taping offered short-term biomechanical benefits but limited long-term impact.

Conclusion: Physiotherapeutic rehabilitation represents the most effective conservative approach for managing patellar chondropathy, with combined hip–knee strengthening and kinetic chain integration demonstrating the highest efficacy in improving pain, function, and movement biomechanics. Despite consistent short- and mid-term benefits, further highquality trials are required to standardize optimal dosage parameters and confirm long-term outcomes.

HTML PDF