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Physical therapy treatment of knee extensor mechanism disorders: comparison of four treatment modalities
Antich TJ, Randall CC, Westbrook RA, Morrissey MC, Brewster CE
The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy 1986 Nov;8(5):255-259
clinical trial
1/10 [Eligibility criteria: No; Random allocation: Yes; Concealed allocation: No; Baseline comparability: No; Blind subjects: No; Blind therapists: No; Blind assessors: No; Adequate follow-up: No; Intention-to-treat analysis: No; Between-group comparisons: No; Point estimates and variability: No. Note: Eligibility criteria item does not contribute to total score] *This score has been confirmed*

Fifty-three patients diagnosed as having one of several types of extensor mechanism disorders of the knee were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups to assess the effects of one of four different modalities (ice, phonophoresis, iontophoresis, and ultrasound/ice contrast). Following four physical therapy treatments over a 10 day period, the group treated with the ultrasound/ice contrast demonstrated the greatest subjective improvement (47%). The pre- to post-treatment isometric strength resulted in 28% improvement in knee extension strength and a 34% improvement in knee flexion strength. The authors emphasize that evaluation should include assessment of quadriceps tone and strength as well as careful palpation to determine the irritable structures. Ultrasound/ice is advocated as the most effective choice of the modalities tested for treatment of pain associated with extensor mechanism disorders.

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