The McConnell medial taping technique; effects on patellar alignment and pain for patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Abstract

The effect of the McConnell medial taping technique on patellar alignment and perceived knee pain in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) between the ages of 20- 50 years old was examined in this study. Clinical patellar alignment was assessed with the McConnell and Herrington manual patellar measuring technique while pain measures were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS). These measures were collected at three-times during a 4-week treatment protocol: prior to treatment, mid-way treatment and 24 hours after treatment. This study included two therapy groups: one received a standard 4-week therapeutic exercise program for PFPS and the other underwent the same standard 4-week exercise program with the inclusion of McConnell’s taping technique. No statistically significant differences were found before and after treatment for pain or patellar alignment in either group. Nonetheless, upon plotting the results a trending decrease in pain for all patients irrespective of group was noted, which raises the question of possible underlying effects influencing pain such as the patellofemoral contact area. Although it appears that the McConnell taping technique had no added benefit when combined with the standard exercise program, this study reaffirms that exercise therapy continues to have a positive effect on PFPS. In conclusion, we speculate that changes in patellofemoral joint (PFJ) contact area may be the primary reason that pain decreases for PFPS patients.