Discrepancies in knee joint moments using common anatomical frames defined by different palpable landmarks

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Accurate measurement of knee joint moments is crucial for understanding knee biomechanics and diagnosing pathologies.
• The definition of anatomical frames based on palpable landmarks can influence calculated joint moments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of three distinct anatomical frames, defined by palpable knee landmarks, on net knee joint moments.
• To assess the sensitivity of knee joint moment calculations to variations in anatomical frame definitions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized palpable anatomical landmarks (femoral epicondyles, condyles, tibial ridges) to define three anatomical frames.
• Collected gait data using the calibrated anatomical system technique (CAST).
• Calculated external net knee joint moments in sagittal, coronal, and transverse planes for each frame.

Main Results:

• Peak knee moments showed significant differences (~25%, p < 0.05) in the sagittal plane across the tested anatomical frames.
• No significant differences in knee joint moments were observed in the coronal or transverse planes.

Conclusions:

• The choice of anatomical frame, based on palpable knee landmarks, significantly affects sagittal plane knee joint moment calculations.
• Awareness of anatomical landmark definitions is essential for accurate interpretation of knee joint moments in biomechanical studies.