Vastus MedialisNCT07425340
Ultrasound Examination of the VMO in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
An observational study of Vastus Medialis and Ultrasonographic, run by Hasan Kalyoncu University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
The aim of this study is to examine in detail the ultrasonographic characteristics of the vastus medialis obliquus and vastus medialis longus muscles in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome and to compare these findings with those of healthy individuals. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 65 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Vastus Medialis, Ultrasonographic, Patello Femoral Pain Syndrome
- How many people
- 40 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 25 Feb 2026to 25 Jun 2026
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 65 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult, Older adult
Study population: The study will include individuals aged 18-65 who have been diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome, as well as healthy volunteers with similar characteristics in terms of age and gender. The study group will consist of individuals who have applied to a physical therapy and rehabilitation clinic or who have been referred to relevant units. The control group will be selected from healthy volunteers who do not have any knee pain or lower extremity musculoskeletal problems.
Who may be able to join
- Between the ages of 18 and 65
- Have had localized pain in the front of the knee for at least the past 3 months
- Experience pain during activities that require stair climbing, squatting, prolonged sitting, or knee flexion
- Have been diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome based on clinical evaluation
- Volunteer to participate in the study and sign the informed consent form
Who cannot join
- History of previous surgery on the knee joint
- History of significant trauma to the knee region within the last 6 months
- Diagnosis of meniscus, ligament injuries, knee osteoarthritis, or inflammatory rheumatic disease
- Neurological diseases or systemic diseases affecting the musculoskeletal system
- Presence of other lower extremity pathologies causing pain at a level that could affect measurements
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Turkey (Türkiye)1 site
Hasan Kalyoncu University
Gaziantep, Şahinbey, (505) 090-5846
About this study
Official title: Ultrasonography Examination of the Vastus Medialis Obliquus and Vastus Medialis Longus Muscles in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
The aim of this study is to examine in detail the ultrasonographic characteristics of the vastus medialis obliquus and vastus medialis longus muscles in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome and to compare these findings with those of healthy individuals. It is anticipated that the results obtained will contribute to a better understanding of the muscle-based mechanisms of PFAS and provide a scientific basis for the development of muscle-specific assessment and intervention strategies in physical therapy and rehabilitation practices.
Read the detailed description
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFAS) is a musculoskeletal problem characterized by pain in the front of the knee joint, commonly seen in young and physically active individuals. The etiology of PFAS is multifactorial and is associated with abnormal loading of the patella within the femoral trochlear groove, alterations in joint biomechanics, and functional deficiencies of the surrounding soft tissues. These mechanical irregularities in the patellofemoral joint can lead to pain, loss of function, and activity limitations over time. The quadriceps femoris muscle group plays a fundamental role in providing dynamic stability to the patella. The vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) and vastus medialis longus (VML) muscles within this muscle group are critical for controlling the patella medially and maintaining its proper alignment within the femoral groove. It is known that the oblique fiber structure of the VMO muscle provides medial stabilizing force to the patella, while the VML muscle contributes to force production during knee extension and overall patellar guidance with its longer fibers. In individuals with PFAS, delayed activation patterns, decreased muscle strength, and morphological changes in the vastus medialis muscle have been reported. However, it is observed in the literature that the VMO and VML muscles are treated as a single structure in most studies, and the separate morphological characteristics of these two muscles and their relationship with patellofemoral pain have not been sufficiently investigated. However, the different anatomical, biomechanical, and functional characteristics of these muscles necessitate that their roles in PFAS pathophysiology be evaluated separately. Ultrasonography is a non-invasive, reliable, and reproducible imaging method for evaluating the morphological characteristics of muscle tissue and is increasingly used in clinical research. Ultrasonographic evaluation allows for the objective examination of muscle thickness, cross-sectional area, and architectural features, thereby providing important information about structural changes in muscle function. The aim of this study is to examine in detail the ultrasonographic characteristics of the vastus medialis obliquus and vastus medialis longus muscles in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome and to compare these findings with healthy individuals. It is anticipated that the results will contribute to the understanding of the muscle-based mechanisms of PFAS and provide a scientific basis for the development of muscle-specific assessment and intervention strategies in physical therapy and rehabilitation practices.
- Keywords
- Patellofemoral Pain, Vastus Medialis Obliqus, Ultrasonographic measurement
- Medical subject headings
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Study Group | The study will include individuals aged 18-65 who have been diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome, as well as healthy volunteers with similar characteristics in terms of age and gender. | |
| Control group | The study will include individuals aged 18-65 who have been diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome, as well as healthy volunteers with similar characteristics in terms of age and gender. |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Ultrasonographic Measurement
A B-mode ultrasound device with a high-frequency (7-12 MHz) linear probe will be used to evaluate muscle architecture. Ultrasound is a reliable, reproducible, and non-invasive imaging method for assessing the morphological characteristics of muscle tissue. Ultrasonographic evaluations will be performed by an experienced researcher in musculoskeletal ultrasonography, in a quiet and standard environment. A high-frequency (7-12 MHz) linear probe will be used during measurements. Participants will be placed on the evaluation table in a supine position, with the knee joint fully extended and relaxed. Before measurements, anatomical reference points will be determined using a tape measure, and temporary markings will be made on the skin. Vastus Medialis Obliquus (VMO): VMO muscle thickness measurement will be performed in the region where the oblique orientation of the muscle fibers is prominent, using the upper-medial edge of the patella as a reference. The measurement point will be determ
Measured: through of the study, average 4 months
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted20 Feb 2026
- Study start25 Feb 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion25 Apr 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion25 Jun 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (6)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Vastus MedialisStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Hasan Kalyoncu University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Tuğba GÖNEN, Hasan Kalyoncu University
- Investigators
- Tuğba GÖNEN, Asisst. Prof. Dr., Principal investigator, Hasan Kalyoncu University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07425340
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 2025/161
- Status last verified
- Feb 2026
- First submitted
- 13 Feb 2026
- Last updated
- 20 Feb 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Publications
Engelina S, Antonios T, Robertson CJ, Killingback A, Adds PJ. Ultrasound investigation of vastus medialis oblique muscle architecture: an in vivo study. Clin Anat. 2014 Oct;27(7):1076-84. doi: 10.1002/ca.22413. Epub 2014 May 5.
PubMed 24797580Castanov V, Hassan SA, Shakeri S, Vienneau M, Zabjek K, Richardson D, McKee NH, Agur AMR. Muscle architecture of vastus medialis obliquus and longus and its functional implications: A three-dimensional investigation. Clin Anat. 2019 May;32(4):515-523. doi: 10.1002/ca.23344. Epub 2019 Feb 19.
PubMed 30701597Sawy MME, Mikkawy DMEE, El-Sayed SM, Desouky AM. Morphometric analysis of vastus medialis oblique muscle and its influence on anterior knee pain. Anat Cell Biol. 2021 Mar 31;54(1):1-9. doi: 10.5115/acb.20.258.
PubMed 33262319Davut S, Dogramaci Y. Evaluation of the relationship between the anatomical characteristics of the vastus medialis obliquus muscle and the patella chondral lesion occurrence. Jt Dis Relat Surg. 2024 Apr 26;35(2):330-339. doi: 10.52312/jdrs.2024.771. Epub 2024 Apr 26.
PubMed 38727112Dong C, Li M, Hao K, Zhao C, Piao K, Lin W, Fan C, Niu Y, Fei W. Dose atrophy of vastus medialis obliquus and vastus lateralis exist in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome. J Orthop Surg Res. 2021 Feb 10;16(1):128. doi: 10.1186/s13018-021-02251-6.
PubMed 33568152Smith TO, Nichols R, Harle D, Donell ST. Do the vastus medialis obliquus and vastus medialis longus really exist? A systematic review. Clin Anat. 2009 Mar;22(2):183-99. doi: 10.1002/ca.20737.
PubMed 19090000
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 20 Feb 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Ultrasonography Examination of the Vastus Medialis Obliquus and Vastus Medialis Longus Muscles in Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07425340
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- 2025/161
- Keywords
- Patellofemoral Pain, Vastus Medialis Obliqus, Ultrasonographic measurement
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Hasan Kalyoncu UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 25 Feb 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 25 Apr 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 25 Jun 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 20 Feb 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The aim of this study is to examine in detail the ultrasonographic characteristics of the vastus medialis obliquus and vastus medialis longus muscles in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome and to compare these findings with those of healthy individuals. It is anticipated that the results obtained will contribute to a better understanding of the muscle-based mechanisms of PFAS and provide a scientific basis for the development of muscle-specific assessment and intervention strategies in physical therapy and rehabilitation practices.
Detailed description
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFAS) is a musculoskeletal problem characterized by pain in the front of the knee joint, commonly seen in young and physically active individuals. The etiology of PFAS is multifactorial and is associated with abnormal loading of the patella within the femoral trochlear groove, alterations in joint biomechanics, and functional deficiencies of the surrounding soft tissues. These mechanical irregularities in the patellofemoral joint can lead to pain, loss of function, and activity limitations over time. The quadriceps femoris muscle group plays a fundamental role in providing dynamic stability to the patella. The vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) and vastus medialis longus (VML) muscles within this muscle group are critical for controlling the patella medially and maintaining its proper alignment within the femoral groove. It is known that the oblique fiber structure of the VMO muscle provides medial stabilizing force to the patella, while the VML muscle contributes to force production during knee extension and overall patellar guidance with its longer fibers. In individuals with PFAS, delayed activation patterns, decreased muscle strength, and morphological changes in the vastus medialis muscle have been reported. However, it is observed in the literature that the VMO and VML muscles are treated as a single structure in most studies, and the separate morphological characteristics of these two muscles and their relationship with patellofemoral pain have not been sufficiently investigated. However, the different anatomical, biomechanical, and functional characteristics of these muscles necessitate that their roles in PFAS pathophysiology be evaluated separately. Ultrasonography is a non-invasive, reliable, and reproducible imaging method for evaluating the morphological characteristics of muscle tissue and is increasingly used in clinical research. Ultrasonographic evaluation allows for the objective examination of muscle thickness, cross-sectional area, and architectural features, thereby providing important information about structural changes in muscle function. The aim of this study is to examine in detail the ultrasonographic characteristics of the vastus medialis obliquus and vastus medialis longus muscles in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome and to compare these findings with healthy individuals. It is anticipated that the results will contribute to the understanding of the muscle-based mechanisms of PFAS and provide a scientific basis for the development of muscle-specific assessment and intervention strategies in physical therapy and rehabilitation practices.
Study design
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Study Group | – | –The study will include individuals aged 18-65 who have been diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome, as well as healthy volunteers with similar characteristics in terms of age and gender. |
| Control group | – | –The study will include individuals aged 18-65 who have been diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome, as well as healthy volunteers with similar characteristics in terms of age and gender. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 65 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
- Study population
- The study will include individuals aged 18-65 who have been diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome, as well as healthy volunteers with similar characteristics in terms of age and gender. The study group will consist of individuals who have applied to a physical therapy and rehabilitation clinic or who have been referred to relevant units. The control group will be selected from healthy volunteers who do not have any knee pain or lower extremity musculoskeletal problems.
Key inclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Between the ages of 18 and 65
- Have had localized pain in the front of the knee for at least the past 3 months
- Experience pain during activities that require stair climbing, squatting, prolonged sitting, or knee flexion
- Have been diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome based on clinical evaluation
- Volunteer to participate in the study and sign the informed consent form
Key exclusion criteria (5 listed)
- History of previous surgery on the knee joint
- History of significant trauma to the knee region within the last 6 months
- Diagnosis of meniscus, ligament injuries, knee osteoarthritis, or inflammatory rheumatic disease
- Neurological diseases or systemic diseases affecting the musculoskeletal system
- Presence of other lower extremity pathologies causing pain at a level that could affect measurements
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Primary outcome
Ultrasonographic Measurement
Time frame: through of the study, average 4 months
A B-mode ultrasound device with a high-frequency (7-12 MHz) linear probe will be used to evaluate muscle architecture. Ultrasound is a reliable, reproducible, and non-invasive imaging method for assessing the morphological characteristics of muscle tissue. Ultrasonographic evaluations will be performed by an experienced researcher in musculoskeletal ultrasonography, in a quiet and standard environment. A high-frequency (7-12 MHz) linear probe will be used during measurements. Participants will be placed on the evaluation table in a supine position, with the knee joint fully extended and relaxed. Before measurements, anatomical reference points will be determined using a tape measure, and temporary markings will be made on the skin. Vastus Medialis Obliquus (VMO): VMO muscle thickness measurement will be performed in the region where the oblique orientation of the muscle fibers is prominent, using the upper-medial edge of the patella as a reference. The measurement point will be determ
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 20 Feb 2026.
- Results publication: PubMed 24797580Engelina S, Antonios T, Robertson CJ, Killingback A, Adds PJ. Ultrasound investigation of vastus medialis oblique muscle architecture: an in vivo study. Clin Anat. 2014 Oct;27(7):1076-84. doi: 10.1002/ca.22413. Epub 2014 May 5.
- Results publication: PubMed 30701597Castanov V, Hassan SA, Shakeri S, Vienneau M, Zabjek K, Richardson D, McKee NH, Agur AMR. Muscle architecture of vastus medialis obliquus and longus and its functional implications: A three-dimensional investigation. Clin Anat. 2019 May;32(4):515-523. doi: 10.1002/ca.23344. Epub 2019 Feb 19.
- Results publication: PubMed 33262319Sawy MME, Mikkawy DMEE, El-Sayed SM, Desouky AM. Morphometric analysis of vastus medialis oblique muscle and its influence on anterior knee pain. Anat Cell Biol. 2021 Mar 31;54(1):1-9. doi: 10.5115/acb.20.258.
- Results publication: PubMed 38727112Davut S, Dogramaci Y. Evaluation of the relationship between the anatomical characteristics of the vastus medialis obliquus muscle and the patella chondral lesion occurrence. Jt Dis Relat Surg. 2024 Apr 26;35(2):330-339. doi: 10.52312/jdrs.2024.771. Epub 2024 Apr 26.
- Results publication: PubMed 33568152Dong C, Li M, Hao K, Zhao C, Piao K, Lin W, Fan C, Niu Y, Fei W. Dose atrophy of vastus medialis obliquus and vastus lateralis exist in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome. J Orthop Surg Res. 2021 Feb 10;16(1):128. doi: 10.1186/s13018-021-02251-6.
- Results publication: PubMed 19090000Smith TO, Nichols R, Harle D, Donell ST. Do the vastus medialis obliquus and vastus medialis longus really exist? A systematic review. Clin Anat. 2009 Mar;22(2):183-99. doi: 10.1002/ca.20737.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
Tuğba GÖNEN, Asisst. Prof. Dr. principal investigator
Hasan Kalyoncu University
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Vastus Medialis and Ultrasonographic, run by Hasan Kalyoncu University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 5 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 20 Feb 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Tuğba GÖNEN, Asisst. Prof. Dr. (505 090 58 46, tugba.badat@hku.edu.tr), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Ultrasonographic Measurement (time frame: through of the study, average 4 months). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07425340, which also lists 6 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 20 Feb 2026.