Therefore it is important to understand the anatomy and function of the VMO when treating patients with patellofemoral dysfunction. Training the VMO is important to prevent lateral tracking of the patella and eliminate patellofemoral dysfunction. This change in VMO activity may be the result of the asymmetric wasting of the Quadriceps muscle. This asymmetry may result in lateral tracking of the patella, which is a common cause of patellofemoral pain. Lower limb mechanics are assessed and the alignment of the patella is evaluated.
Patellar alignment is improved with tape and muscles are trained to optimize dynamic control.
Change in the muscle activity of the knee improves patellar tracking and lower limb mechanics and significantly decreases pain. EMG monitoring is utilized to assist with the assessment of muscle activity and to demonstrate any imbalance to the patient. During training, the patient can use a portable EMG device to monitor the firing pattern of the muscles. Such a device can be used in a clinical setting as well as part of a home program. Training may also be specific to a particular part of the range of motion i.e. at 20-30 degrees of knee flexion, as the patella is engaging in the trochlear groove of the femur.