EFFECTS OF STRENGTH TRAINING ON PAIN AND FUNCTION IN WOMEN WITH PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN SYNDROME: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Patellofemoral pain is a musculoskeletal condition that may limit daily and sports activities, particularly among women. Strength training is one of the conservative approaches used to reduce pain and improve function. This study aimed to analyze the effects of strength training on pain and function in women with patellofemoral pain syndrome. An integrative literature review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO and LILACS, covering original studies published between January 2022 and August 2026. Six interventional studies met the eligibility criteria. The protocols included hip and knee exercises, isokinetic strengthening, supervised programs and different training volumes. Overall, interventions were associated with pain reduction and functional improvements, but no single approach showed consistent superiority. Differences in samples, exercise protocols and outcome measures limit direct comparisons. Strength training may be part of conservative care for women with patellofemoral pain, provided that exercise prescription is adjusted to load tolerance, functional limitations and individual responses.