Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), often known as runner's knee, is the most prevalent diagnosis for people experiencing knee pain behind, under, or surrounding the patella while running, kneeling, prolonged sitting, and climbing stairs.

Objective - To determine the effectiveness of half squats and inner thigh strengthening exercise in patients having Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFS).

Methodology - Randomized Control Trial was conducted in 54 patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome from public and private hospitals and clinics of Jhelum through non probability convenient sampling. . Participants were randomly distributed into 2 groups: Group A: 2 months long, half squats and inner thigh strengthening exercises program; Group B: 2 months long, inner thigh strengthening exercises program. Demographic data, health status of participant was collected through SF-36 Questionnaire. KUJALA Scoring Questionnaire and NPRS were used for functional assessment of participants and level of pain. To measure knee strength and ROMs of paticipants, MRC scale and Goniometer were used, respectively. Data was analyzed through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 and interpreted using  independent t-test and two way repeated measures ANOVA.

Results – The addition of half squats to the inner thigh strengthening exercises improved the quality of life of participants in the intervention group A, a statistically significant decrease in pain and an increase in muscle strength and functional performance (p<0.001) was observed.

Conclusion – Adding half squats to inner thigh strengthening exercises programs for strengthening quadriceps muscles, the program was effective to reduce pain and improve knee functionality as well as quality of life in people with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Keywords - Anterior Knee Pain Syndrome, Muscle Strength, Joint Range of Motion, Questionnaire, Assessment, Patient Outcomes, Clinical Trials, Exercise, Strengthening Programs, Pain, Patellofemoral