Dosimetry of quadriceps electrical stimulation in patellofemoral pain: a scoping review

Context/objective Given the recent publication of a systematic review and meta-analysis on this topic, this scoping review aims to map the evidence with a specific focus on the dosimetry parameters and their relationship to outcomes, an area not comprehensively detailed in previous syntheses.Methods This scoping review of the literature was conducted according to the stages proposed by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) for Scoping Reviews. The search strategy was formulated from a combination of controlled descriptors related to the topic, without applying restrictions related to language or publication periods. The bibliographic search was conducted in indexed and gray literature databases.Results The main outcomes assessed by the included studies were quadriceps function, isometric, and concentric knee extension torque, peak knee extensor torque, and electromyography. Stimulation frequencies ranged from 2 Hz to 2500 Hz, with 20–50 Hz being the most frequently used.Conclusion There is variability in application protocols and a lack of studies addressing specific activation/deactivation time parameters. This review provides practical recommendations for clinicians, including the use of 40–50 Hz frequencies, a 1:2 on/off duty cycle, and motor point stimulation.