The Impact of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Techniques versus Core Strengthening Exercises on Balance in Adolescents with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Background: It's common for adolescents to experience a condition called patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Basically, this causes pain at the front of the knee, and it can make it hard for them to do things like play sports or just go about their daily lives. Purpose: This study aims to explore how effective PNF stretching and core exercises are in improving balance and reducing discomfort for adolescents dealing with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS). Methods: We carried out a quasi-experimental trial involving 24 adolescents aged 16 to 18, all diagnosed with PFPS. We randomly split the participants into two groups of 12. Over a two-month period, one group focused on Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching three times a week, while the other worked on core exercises with the same frequency. To see how they were doing, we measured their pain levels using the Visual Analog Scale(VAS), checked how their knees were functioning with the Anterior Knee Pain Scale (AKPS), and tested their balance with the Biodex Balance System. Results: Both groups made impressive progress, showing reduced pain, better knee function, and improved balance. That said, the PNF stretching group really stood out—they experienced a more dramatic drop in pain and even greater improvements in knee function compared to the core exercise group. As for dynamic balance, there didn’t seem to be much of a difference between the two groups. Conclusion: The results show that PNF techniques might be a better way to relieve pain and improve knee function for teenagers dealing with PFPS than core strengthening exercises. However, there's still more to learn. Future research can dive deeper into the long-term effects and help figure out the best strategies to ensure patients get the most benefits from their treatment.