Effects of different lunge exercises on lower limb mechanics and muscle activation in patellofemoral pain syndrome patients

• Traditional lunge is effective for quadriceps strengthening in early rehabilitation of patellofemoral pain syndrome. • Lunge with hip adduction resistance improves vastus medialis/vastus lateralis activation ratio, especially in healthy individuals. • Lunge with hip abduction resistance reduces peak patellofemoral joint stress and enhances gluteus medius activation in patients. • Lunge with lateral resistance exercises are recommended for later rehabilitation to improve neuromuscular control of the lower limb kinetic chain.