The Kneecap – a bone of contention

Volunteers are needed at The University of Queensland for groundbreaking research into pain caused by the kneecap, medically known as the patella.

Study chief investigator Dr Bill Vicenzino of the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences said the kneecap was a relatively small bone but could cause a huge amount of pain and discomfort.

"The best management approach really hasn’t been identified," he said.

“This condition can stop people from enjoying playing sport or recreational activities and interfere with many daily tasks. Simple things, like walking upstairs or even sitting for long periods of time can bring on the pain.”

Researchers at The University of Queensland will need hundreds of subjects and will continue to recruit over the next year.

Suitable volunteers will have six free appointments with a physiotherapist and have their progress monitored at six, 12 and 52 weeks.

Volunteers should be aged 18-40, with pain at the front of their knee that affects their ability to do daily activities or exercise.

Suitable volunteers will be asked to attend an assessment at the University`s St Lucia campus (free parking available), to determine whether they are eligible to participate.

The project is funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council and orthotic company Vasyli International .

For further information, contact Jane Buckley by phone 07 3365
4587 or email:j.buckley@shrs.uq.edu.au.

Media: For further information please contact Dr Vicenzino or Ms Buckley at telephone 07 33654587.