Moorthy A 1*, Jibi Paul 1, G. Muthuraj 1

Authors:
1 Faculty of Physiotherapy, DR MGR Educational and Research Institute, Velappanchavadi, Chennai, India
Corresponding Author:
1* Faculty of Physiotherapy, DR MGR Educational and Research Institute, Velappanchavadi, Chennai, India. Email: moorthympt@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Background of the study: Knee joint stiffness is one of the commonest complications in patients who had fractures in the femur and upper tibia. Stiffness, restrict range of motion of joint caused by soft tissue tightness and intra articular adhesions. The aim of study is to understand the effects of Muscle Energy Techniques on early knee joint mobilization to improve the range of motion by reducing post traumatic stiffness.

Methodology: A pretest-post test control group design was used for this study. Thirty patients from orthopedic physical therapy outpatient department of Sri Gokulam hospital, Salem were selected for this study and equally divided into two groups. Patients in group-A (Experimental) received wax therapy, static quadriceps exercise, active assisted mobilization and muscle energy techniques. Patients in group-B (control) who received wax therapy, static quadriceps exercise and active assisted knee mobilization. Pain was measured by Visual Analogue Scale, Range of motion by Universal Goniometer and muscle strength by Manual Muscle Testing.

Result: The mean post test values for group A and group B are 2.2 and 4.4 for Pain, 103 and 78 for Active Knee Flexion, 7.7 and 6.2 for Quadriceps strength respectively.

Conclusion: The study concluded that Muscle Energy Technique is more effective in improving range of motion, strength of quadriceps muscles and reducing pain in knee joint.

Keywords: Knee joint stiffness, Visual Analogue Scale, Range of motion, Goniometer, Manual Muscle Testing, Muscle Energy Technique