Improving functional outcomes in patellofemoral pain syndrome through combined open kinetic chain exercise and tDCS: A randomized controlled trial

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) commonly causes anterior knee pain in active individuals due to muscle imbalances and biomechanical issues. Though strengthening exercise are standanrd, some cases remain unresolved. tDCS shows potential as an adjunct therapy to improve pain relief and function. This study assessed the effectiveness of combining tDCS with knee-strengthening exercises in improving pain and function in individuals with PFPS. Primary: Evaluate the impact of combined tDCS and strengthening exercises on pain and functional outcome. Secondary: Compare the combined approach to conventional exercise therapy in terms of pain, relief, function and quality of life. This single-blind, randomized controlled experiment examined the efficacy of tDCS in conjunction with knee strengthening exercises against knee exercises alone. Group A received both tDCS and strengthening exercises over the course of six weeks, whereas group B only received exesrcises. VAS and AKPS were used to measure pain and disability at baseline, week 2, week 4 and week 6, while KOOS was used to measure Quality of Life at baseline and week 6. Both groups showed improvements in pain and disability, however the experimental group experienced earliar and greater beneffits. Significant changes began at week 2 for the experimental group and at week 4 for the control group. Between-group comparisons at weeks 2,4 and 6 showed significantly better outcomes for the experimental group (p<0.01). The findings suggest that tDCS, when combined with traditional knee strengthing exercises, may enhace treatment efficacy for PFPS. This non-invasive approach offers a promising alternative for managing this prevalent condition, warranting further investigation into its long-term benefits and applications in clinical practice.