Natalie J Collins

• PhD, PT (M Sports Physio)
• Lecturer at The University of Queensland

BACKGROUND: Nearly 40% of adults suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee, with the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) being the most affected knee compartment. Despite its prevalence, a clinical or radiographic definition of patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) has yet to be agreed upon. What little research that has been conducted on PFOA has not consisten...

Background In people with knee osteoarthritis, the association between multidirectional hip strength and physical function or balance is unknown. Objective To determine the relationship between hip flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, external and internal rotation strength and (1) physical function and (2) dynamic balance. Design Cross-sect...

Background Although foot orthoses are often used in the management of lower limb musculoskeletal conditions, their effects on muscle activation is unclear, especially in more proximal segments of the lower limb. Research question Primary aim: Is there an immediate effect of foot orthoses on gluteal muscle activity during overground walking in heal...

Objectives The benefits of exercise are well established for psychological well-being, but it is unknown whether one type of exercise can be recommended over another for psychological well-being in knee osteoarthritis (OA). This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of different types of exercise on psychological well-being in people with knee O...

INTRODUCTION: Patellofemoral joint (PFJ) pathology is prevalent and associated with significant morbidity. Although protocols for PFJ radiograph acquisition exist, standardized methods to acquire radiographs of the PFJ have not been universally adopted, resulting in variances in patient positioning, weight-bearing status, knee flexion angle, and ra...

INTRODUCTION: Radiographic patellofemoral (PF) osteoarthritis (OA) affects 25% of the general population and is present in 39% of people with knee pain. Although radiographs are considered the gold standard in diagnosing PFOA, the majority of knee OA research has focused on the tibiofemoral joint (TFJ), resulting in a lack of development and univer...

Patellofemoral pain is a common and often debilitating musculoskeletal condition. Clinical translation and evidence synthesis of patellofemoral pain research are compromised by heterogenous and often inadequately reported study details. This consensus statement and associated checklist provides standards for REPORTing of quantitative PatelloFemoral...

BACKGROUND: Patellofemoral joint (PFJ) pathology is prevalent and associated with significant morbidity. Standardized methods of acquiring radiographs of the PFJ have yet to be adopted, resulting in variances in patient positioning, weight-bearing status, knee flexion angle, and beam direction, causing inconsistent joint assessment. We aimed to con...

The patellofemoral joint (PFJ) is the most commonly affected compartment in knee osteoarthritis (OA), with estimates that radiographic patellofemoral OA (PFOA) occurs in 40% of the population. Radiographs are the most widely used imaging modality in OA evaluation and management, and the only modality accepted by the FDA for assessment of OA structu...

Background The intrinsic muscles of the foot are key contributors to foot function and are important to evaluate in lower limb disorders. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), provides a non-invasive option to measure muscle morphology and composition, which are primary determinants of muscle function. Ultra-high-field (7-T) magnetic resonance imaging...

Background Sitting-related pain is a common feature of patellofemoral pain (PFP). However, little is known regarding features associated with sitting-related PFP. The aim of this study was to determine whether sitting-related PFP is associated with patellofemoral alignment, morphology and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of the...

Background: Plantar heel pain (PHP) is present in a wide range of individuals and creates significant burden to quality of life and participation in physical activity. The high recurrence rates and persistence of PHP suggests current management options may not address all potentially modifiable factors associated with the condition. Reports of int...

Background: Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is a common cause of knee pain in adolescents, but there are limited evidence-based treatment options for this population. Foot orthoses can improve pain and function in adults with PFP, and may be effective for adolescents. The primary aim of this study is to determine the feasibility of conducting a full-sca...

INTRODUCTION: Radiographic patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) affects an estimated 40% of the population. Multiple methods are used to radiograph the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) and a consensus on grading radiographic features of PFOA is lacking. This review aimed to: 1) provide an overview of contemporary methods of radiographing the PFJ; and 2)...

INTRODUCTION: Radiographic patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) affects an estimated 40% of the population. Multiple methods are used to radiograph the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) and a consensus on grading radiographic features of PFOA is lacking. This review aimed to: 1) provide an overview of contemporary methods of radiographing the PFJ; and 2)...

INTRODUCTION: An estimated 40% of the population is afflicted with radiographic patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA). A consensus on techniques and methods used to acquire and grade radiographs of the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) is lacking. This review aimed to: 1) provide an overview of contemporary methods of radiographing the PFJ; and 2) describe...

Background Foot and ankle characteristics are associated with patellofemoral pain (PFP) and may also relate to patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA). A greater understanding of these characteristics and PFOA, could help to identify effective targeted treatments. Objectives To determine whether foot and ankle characteristics are associated with knee...

Background: The intrinsic muscles of the foot are key contributors to foot function and are important to evaluate in lower limb disorders. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), provides a non-invasive option to measure muscle morphology and composition, which are primary determinants of muscle function. Ultra-high-field (7-T) magnetic resonance imaging...

Background: The intrinsic muscles of the foot are key contributors to foot function and are important to evaluate in lower limb disorders. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), provides a non-invasive option to measure muscle morphology and composition, which are primary determinants of muscle function. Ultra-high-field (7-T) magnetic resonance imaging...

Therapeutic exercise is a recommended first‐line treatment for patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis (OA); however, there is little specific advice or practical resources to guide clinicians in its implementation. As the first in a series of projects by the Osteoarthritis Research Society International Rehabilitation Discussion Group to address...

Introduction The aim of this study was to determine whether participant characteristics and clinical assessments could identify radiographic osteoarthritis (OA) in individuals with clinically diagnosed, symptomatic patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA). Methods Participant characteristics and clinical assessments were obtained from 179 individuals...

PURPOSE: The patellofemoral joint (PFJ) is the most commonly affected compartment in knee osteoarthritis (OA), with estimates of isolated radiographic patellofemoral OA (PFOA) occurring in 40% of the population. Radiography is currently the most widely used imaging modality in OA evaluation and management, and the only modality accepted by the FDA...

PURPOSE: The patellofemoral joint (PFJ) is the most commonly affected compartment in knee osteoarthritis (OA), with estimates of isolated radiographic patellofemoral OA (PFOA) occurring in 40% of the population. Radiography is currently the most widely used imaging modality in OA evaluation and management, and the only modality accepted by the FDA...

Background Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is defined biomechanically, but is characterised by features that fit poorly within nociceptive pain. Mechanisms associated with central sensitisation may explain why, for some, symptoms appear nociplastic. This study compares psychological and somatosensory characteristics between those with persistent PFP and...

Objective Determine the relation of symptomatic and structural features of patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) to psychological characteristics and measures of pain sensitisation, in older adults with or at risk of knee OA. Methods 1112 participants from the Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study were included (713 females; mean±SD age 66.8±7.6 years,...

Background: The efficacy of foot orthoses in reducing patellofemoral pain (PFP) is well documented; however, the mechanisms by which foot orthoses modulate pain and function are poorly understood. Research question: This within-subject study investigated the immediate effects of foot orthoses on lower limb kinematics and angular impulses during...

Objective To determine the feasibility of a full‐scale randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing foot orthoses and footwear to footwear alone in individuals with patellofemoral (PF) osteoarthritis (OA). Methods This 4‐month, parallel, 2‐arm pilot trial took place in Brisbane, Queensland and Hobart, Tasmania (August 2014 to October 2016). Forty‐s...

Background: Foot orthoses are a recommended treatment for patellofemoral (PF) pain and a number of lower limb osteoarthritic (OA) conditions. However, their mechanism of effect is poorly understood. Research question: To compare the immediate effects of foot orthoses and flat inserts on lower limb biomechanics, knee pain and confidence in indivi...

INTRODUCTION: The patellofemoral joint (PFJ) is the most commonly affected compartment in knee osteoarthritis (OA), with estimates that radiographic patellofemoral OA (PFOA) occurs in 40% of the population. Various techniques are used to radiograph the PFJ and no consensus exists on grading radiographic features of PFOA. The objectives of this revi...

Abstract Background Foot orthoses have the potential to be an efficacious treatment for patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) but have not been evaluated in clinical trials in this population. This study aimed to determine the: (i) feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial (RCT) investigating the efficacy of foot orthoses in individual...

Objective To determine the immediate effects of a varus unloader knee brace on lower-limb electromyographic activity in individuals with lateral knee osteoarthritis and valgus malalignment after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Methods Electromyographic data were recorded in 19 individuals with lateral knee osteoarthritis and valgus mala...

INTRODUCTION: The patellofemoral joint (PFJ) is the most commonly affected compartment in knee OA, and patellofemoral OA (PFOA) tends to affect a younger, more active population than tibiofemoral OA. Radiographs are currently the most widely used imaging modality in OA evaluation and management, and the only modality accepted by the FDA for assessm...

Introduction Patellofemoral (PF) osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and burdensome subgroup of knee OA, with very little evidence for effective treatments. Prefabricated foot orthoses are an affordable and accessible intervention that have been shown to reduce PF pain in younger adults. Similarities between PF pain and PFOA, as well as our pilot work,...

Background: Patellofemoral OA is characterized by PF pain during activities that load a flexed knee. Stair stepping ability is frequently impaired, yet little is known of the muscular recruitment strategies utilized during this task. Altered recruitment strategies may provide targets for clinical interventions. We aimed to determine if people with...

Objectives To determine, in people with knee osteoarthritis (KOA): i) the effectiveness of adding hip strengthening exercises to quadriceps exercises and ii) the type of hip strengthening exercise with the greatest evidence for improving pain, function and quality of life. Design Systematic review with meta-analysis. Data sources Medline, Embase,...

Public health campaigns promote regular exercise and physical activity. These campaigns are founded on global recommendations that a combination of aerobic and resistance exercise is required, on a weekly basis, to maximise physical and mental health. However, participation in all forms of sports and physical activity has inherent risks that need t...

Background Age-related changes in midfoot mobility have the potential to influence success with foot orthoses intervention in people with patellofemoral pain (PFP). The aim of this study was to determine whether older people with PFP demonstrate less foot mobility than younger adults with PFP. Methods One hundred ninety four participants (113 (58%...

Background The intrinsic foot muscles (IFMs) are important contributors to optimal foot function. While assessment of IFM morphology using ultrasound imaging in non-weight bearing has been established, this does not evaluate the foot in its primary functional position of weight bearing. Research question Is ultrasound imaging a reliable and clinic...

Objective: Conduct a systematic review of systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) from the past year evaluating rehabilitation for people with osteoarthritis, and provide narrative synthesis of findings focused on core recommended treatments for osteoarthritis (exercise, education, biomechanical interventions, weight loss). Des...

Study design Controlled laboratory study; cross-sectional design. Background Foot and ankle characteristics and dynamic knee valgus differ in people with and without patellofemoral (PF) pain. However, it is unknown if these characteristics are evident in people with PF osteoarthritis (OA), compared to pain-free older adults. Objectives To compare...

DS_10.1177_0363546518801314 – Supplemental material for Are Patellofemoral Joint Alignment and Shape Associated With Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging Abnormalities and Symptoms Among People With Patellofemoral Pain?

Background: Patellofemoral malalignment has been observed among people with patellofemoral pain (PFP) and may be associated with the presence of imaging features of osteoarthritis, symptoms, and function. Purpose: To determine whether patellofemoral joint alignment and bony shape are associated with (1) cartilage, bone, and soft tissue morpholog...

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association of self-reported knee stability with symptoms, function, and quality of life in individuals with knee osteoarthritis after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Setting: Cross-sectional. Participants: Twenty-eight individuals with knee osteoarthritis, 5 to 12 years after AC...

Objective To describe the prevalence of radiographic features of patellofemoral (PF) osteoarthritis (OA) in adults with persistent PF pain, to describe the prevalence of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–defined PF OA and compare it to that in age‐ and sex‐matched controls, and to explore the prevalence of radiographic and MRI‐defined PF OA across a...

Patellofemoral pain affects a large proportion of the population, from adolescents to older adults, and carries a substantial personal and societal burden. An international group of scientists and clinicians meets biennially at the International Patellofemoral Research Retreat to share research findings related to patellofemoral pain conditions and...

Background and aims: Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is a prevalent and debilitating musculoskeletal condition, considered to have a mechanical aetiology. As such, the physical impairments associated with PFP are well documented and have helped characterise different physical phenotypes. But little is known about the relationship between PFP and psychol...

Background Patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis is a common condition, yet information regarding conservative management is lacking. Foot orthoses are an effective intervention for improving pain and function in younger individuals with patellofemoral pain and may be effective in those with patellofemoral osteoarthritis. This pilot study will seek t...

In addition to footwear characteristics, it has been hypothesised that plantar foot sensitivity influences the perception of footwear comfort during running. This study examined the relationship between plantar foot sensitivity to light tough, mechanical pain, vibration and pressure pain and footwear comfort rankings of cushioned and minimal shoes...

Context: It is important to validate single-leg squat visual rating criteria used in clinical practice and research. Foot orthoses may improve single-leg squat performance in those who demonstrate biomechanics associated with increased risk of lower-limb injury. Objective: Validate visual rating criteria proposed by Crossley et al, by determinin...

Objective: To present the current status of knowledge in the field of patellofemoral (PF) osteoarthritis (OA) and formulate a research agenda in order to guide future research on this topic. Design: A 1-day meeting was organized with the aim to bring together international experts in the field to discuss the current state of knowledge on PF OA....

Background Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is prevalent in adolescence and adulthood and often persists. In contrast to other persistent musculoskeletal conditions, for which non-physical, psychological features are implicated, PFP remains largely conceptualised in mechanical terms. Aims To (1) identify whether the psychological characteristics of indiv...

Background Patellofemoral pain and osteoarthritis are prevalent and associated with substantial pain and functional impairments. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are recommended for research and clinical use, but no PROMs are specific for patellofemoral osteoarthritis, and existing PROMs for patellofemoral pain have methodological limitati...

Objective: To make a recommendation on the "best" instrument to assess attitudes toward and/or capabilities regarding self-management of osteoarthritis based on available measurement property evidence. Methods: Electronic searches were performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsychINFO (inception to 27 December 2016). Two reviewers independently...

Purpose: Lateral compartment osteoarthritis accompanied by abnormal knee biomechanics are frequently reported in individuals with knee osteoarthritis after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in knee biomechanics produced by an adjusted and unadjusted varus knee brace during high dynamic...

The patellofemoral (PF) joint is the knee compartment most commonly affected by osteoarthritis (OA). Even mild PF OA is associated with considerable pain and functional limitations. Despite its prevalence and impact, little is understood of the etiology or structural and functional features of PF OA. The clinical symptoms of PF OA, such as anterior...

Background: The purpose of the study was to determine whether prefabricated foot orthoses immediately reduce pain during functional tasks in people with patellofemoral osteoarthritis, compared to flat insoles and shoes alone. Methods: Eighteen people with predominant lateral patellofemoral osteoarthritis (nine women; mean [SD] age 59 [10]years;...

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common rheumatic disease, most often affecting the knee, hip, and hand joints. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) play an important role in the management of patients with OA. Because OA can occur in people across all ages of the lifespan, clinicians should select PROMs that are able to capture the course of t...

Study Design Retrospective cohort. Background Although persons with patellofemoral pain (PFP) often report pain with prolonged sitting, little is known about the prevalence and characteristics of sitting pain. Objectives To describe the proportion of persons with PFP who experience problems with prolonged sitting and to determine patient characte...

Study Design Cross-sectional, controlled laboratory study. Background Postural control following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) primarily has been investigated during static single-leg balance tasks. Little is known about dynamic postural control deficits post-ACLR. Objectives To compare dynamic postural control (bilaterally) in...

Objective: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesise evidence regarding measurement properties of the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Design: A comprehensive literature search identified 37 eligible papers evaluating KOOS measurement properties in participants with knee injuries and/or osteoarthritis. Me...

Background: The frontal plane projection angle (FPPA) is frequently used as a measure of dynamic knee valgus during functional tasks, such as the single leg squat. Increased dynamic knee valgus is observed in people with knee pathologies including patellofemoral pain and anterior cruciate injury. As the foot is the primary interface with the suppor...

Background Abnormal gait after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) may contribute to development and/or progression of knee osteoarthritis. Objective To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of knee kinematics and joint moments during walking after ACLR. Methods We searched seven electronic databases and reference lists of rele...

Objective: To determine if the presence of MRI osteoarthritis (OA) features in the patellofemoral or tibiofemoral joint (i.e. bone marrow lesions, cartilage lesions, osteophytes) and/or functional impairments, 1-year following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), can predict Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) at 3-yea...

Background Patellofemoral pain (PFP) has traditionally been viewed as self-limiting, but recent studies show that a large proportion of patients report chronic knee pain at long-term follow-up. We identified those patients with an unfavourable recovery (‘moderate improvement’ to ‘worse than ever’ measured on a Likert scale) and examined whether the...

The frontal plane projection angle (FPPA) is frequently used as a measure of dynamic knee valgus during functional tasks, such as the single leg squat. Increased dynamic knee valgus is observed in people with knee pathologies including patellofemoral pain and anterior cruciate injury. As the foot is the primary interface with the support surface, f...

Background Abnormal gait after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) may contribute to development and/or progression of knee osteoarthritis. Objective To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of knee kinematics and joint moments during walking after ACLR. Methods We searched seven electronic databases and reference lists of rele...