Alterations in Center of Pressure During Single-Limb Loading in Individuals with Patellofemoral Pain

BACKGROUND: Altered foot loading during weightbearing is suggested to play a role in the development of patellofemoral pain (PFP). This study aimed to determine foot-loading characteristics associated with PFP by assessing center of pressure (COP) during single-limb loading in individuals with PFP compared with noninjured controls. METHODS: Thirty recreationally active patients with PFP and 30 noninjured control participants had barefoot plantar pressure assessed during single-limb squats (SLSs) from which COP parameters (COP velocity and COP index) were obtained. Groups were compared using independent t tests. RESULTS: Individuals with PFP demonstrated a greater COP index (P = .042), indicating a more lateral foot-loading pattern, and exhibited increased overall COP velocity (P = .013) and anteroposterior COP velocity during SLSs compared with control participants (P = .033). CONCLUSIONS: Greater lateral foot loading and increased COP velocity during SLSs demonstrated by individuals with PFP may indicate reduced dynamic balance in this patient group, which may be implicated in the development of PFP.