Investigating the impact of different flooring surfaces on EMG muscle activation of the knee and hip muscles during squatting and stair descending in patients with Patellofemoral Pain.

Patellofemoral Pain (PFP) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition that affects a significant portion of the population, particularly athletes and physically active individuals. It is characterized by pain around the patella (kneecap) and is often exacerbated by activities that involve knee flexion, such as squatting, stair climbing, and descending (Papadopoulos et al., 2015). The aetiology of PFP is multifactorial, involving biomechanical, muscular, and structural factors (Gasibat et al., 2023).

Electromyography (EMG) is a valuable tool for assessing muscle activation patterns and has been widely used in research to understand the neuromuscular control of the lower extremities during various functional tasks. Previous studies have investigated EMG muscle activation in different contexts. For instance, Bolgla and Uhl (2005) examined hip abductor muscle activation during rehabilitation exercises and highlighted the importance of hip strengthening in lower extremity rehabilitation. Similarly, Gasibat et al. (2023) compared EMG activity of the gluteus maximus and medius during different exercises, providing insights into muscle activation patterns.

Despite the extensive research on muscle activation during functional tasks, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the impact of different flooring surfaces on EMG muscle activation of the knee and hip muscles, particularly in patients with PFP. Flooring surfaces can vary significantly in terms of hardness, texture, and compliance, which may influence muscle activation and joint loading during activities such as squatting and stair descending. Understanding these effects is crucial for developing effective rehabilitation strategies and optimizing functional performance in patients with PFP.

We are looking for a PhD student who would like to develop an in-depth mixed-methods study to enhance our understanding of: (i) how different flooring surfaces impact EMG muscle activation of the quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteal muscles during squatting and stair descending, and determine if specific flooring surfaces can reduce muscle activation and pain in patients with PFP. This multi-disciplinary, collaborative study will be conducted across both UW and NHS environments, offering an opportunity for the successful applicant to develop an applied, impactful research study which could enhance physiotherapy practice and patient experience and outcomes in this important area.

Application Process

To begin the application process please go to https://www.worcester.ac.uk/courses/medical-sciences-mphilphd and click on ‘How to Apply’ in the top menu. This PhD could be caried out on a part time or full time basis so please select the relevant application link. On the application form, please make it clear that you are applying for one of our advertised projects so we can direct it straight to the relevant people.

The Interview

All successful applicants will be offered an interview with the proposed Supervisory Team. You will be contacted by a member of the Research School Team to find a suitable date. Interviews can be conducted in person or over Microsoft Teams.

Funding your PhD:

For information about Doctoral Loans please visit: https://www.worc.ac.uk/study/fees-and-finance/doctoral-loans.aspx

During your PhD you can access the Research Student Support Scheme to support dissemination costs associated with your research, up to £500 a year.

Research Group

Living Well with Long-Term Conditions Research Group

Approximately 15 million people in England, representing 1 in 4 adults, have one or more long-term conditions (LTCs). A LTC is an illness that cannot be cured but may be controlled with medicines or other treatments. People living with LTCs face considerable challenges around the management of their long-term physical and mental health.

The ‘Living Well with Long-Term Conditions’ Research Group aims to facilitate the development and implementation of high-quality research and knowledge exchange, targeted at helping people with long-term conditions and their families to live well.

Supervisory team

Director of Studies:

Dr Konstantinos Papadopoulos (Head of Department for Allied Health) LWLTC co-lead, Living with Long Term Conditions Research Group, School of Allied Health and Community, University of Worcester

Supervisors:

Dr Dez Kyte, (Professor of Physiotherapy, Living with Long Term Conditions Research Group) School of Allied Health and Community, University of Worcester

Research Group: Living Well with Long-Term Conditions

For further information or an informal discussion on this project, please contact Dr Konstantinos Papadopoulos (Direct of Studies) via email at [email protected]