Effect of ultrasound therapy combined with vastus medialis oblique strengthening exercises in patellofemoral osteoarthritis: an interventional study

Background: Patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) is a degenerative knee condition that causes pain, functional limitations, and impaired mobility. Physiotherapeutic interventions, including therapeutic ultrasound and targeted muscle strengthening, may offer symptomatic relief and improved joint mechanics. Objective: To evaluate the effects of ultrasound therapy combined with Vastus Medialis Oblique (VMO) strengthening exercises on pain, functional performance, and patellar stability in individuals with PFOA. Methods: Sixty participants clinically diagnosed with PFOA were assigned to one of two interventional groups. The experimental group received ultrasound therapy in addition to VMO-specific strengthening exercises, while the comparison group received general knee strengthening exercises without ultrasound. Both groups underwent a 6-week exercise program, with pre- and post-intervention evaluations. Outcomes included pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale), function (Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale), and clinical assessment of patellar tracking. Results: The group receiving ultrasound and VMO-specific exercises demonstrated greater improvement in pain scores (mean VAS reduction of 3.2 ± 0.6) and function (mean Kujala score improvement of 18.5 ± 4.1) compared to the comparison group (p < 0.05). Improved dynamic patellar tracking was also more prominent in the experimental group. Conclusion: The combination of ultrasound therapy and VMO-targeted strengthening appears to be an effective approach in the conservative management of patellofemoral osteoarthritis. This interventional strategy may reduce symptoms and improve joint mechanics better than general strengthening protocols alone.