Effectiveness of Selected Traditional Chinese Medicine Topical Agents on Long Distance Runner Versus Exercise Therapy as Control for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Background: With the rising popularity of long-distance running in Hong Kong, running-related injuries have become more common, particularly patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), which is one of the most prevalent conditions among endurance runners. PFPS can negatively affect training consistency, race performance, and long-term participation. While exercise therapy is the primary intervention, patient adherence and long-term outcomes remain limited. Traditional Chinese Medicine ointment (TCMO, Ng's formula) has shown anti-inflammatory and tissue-repairing properties, making it a promising adjunct therapy for PFPS. Objective: 1. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of selected topical agents used in Traditional Chinese Medicine on PFPS in long-distance runners. 2. To assess the impact of these topical agents on running performance in PFPS patients. Methods: A randomized, controlled, parallel-group, single-blinded trial will be conducted with 50 participants. Group A will receive TCMO combined with exercise therapy, while Group B will receive exercise therapy alone. The intervention lasts four weeks, with weekly follow-ups to monitor adherence. Primary outcomes include Kujala Scale (AKPS), eccentric step-down test, and fastest finishing time of recorded race distances. Safety will be monitored through participant reports and exclusion of individuals with contraindications.