PMC3961060_01
Picture illustrating the patellar alignment of the right (a) and left (b) knee of the patient. The three lines indicate the superior margin of the patella, the inferior pole of the patella, and the tibial tubercle.
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F1
Inspection of her patellar alignment suggested that her patella was superiorly displaced (figure 1).
Lateral radiograph of the subject's left knee used to examine patella alignment
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F2
The height of the patella was measured using the superior margin and the inferior pole of the patella as landmarks. The values were then compared to determine the IS ratio (figure 2). However, because clinical measures for patella alta have been deemed unreliable, the clinical measurements taken were confirmed with more specific measurements of the lateral radiograph (figure 2) that were provided by the referring physician. As the inferior force was applied, the tape was affixed on either side of the knee forming an inverted "U" shape over the patella (figures 2 and 3).
Diagrammatic representation of the direction of force applied through taping to the patellofemoral joint
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F3
As the inferior force was applied, the tape was affixed on either side of the knee forming an inverted "U" shape over the patella (figures 2 and 3).
Line graph demonstrating patient status according to the assigned scores from selected indicators of progress
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F5
To summarize patient improvement over the time period for which she was seen for physical therapy, a novel assessment of patient progress was developed (figure 5).
Incorrect taping method as performed by the patient. Demonstrated on a model knee.
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F6
The tape was positioned superior to the margin of the patella around the distal quadriceps muscle and was providing no stabilization force (figure 6).