A preliminary study of patellar tendon torques during jumping

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee) is linked to increased patellar tendon torques during jumping.
• Limited data exists on the comparative patellar tendon torques during jump takeoff versus landing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare peak patellar tendon torques during jump takeoff and landing.
• To investigate the correlation between jump height and peak patellar tendon torques.
• To explore the relationship between isokinetic extension torque and jump height.

Main Methods:

• Seven male athletes performed jumps of varying heights.
• A fiber-optic sensor implanted in the patellar tendon measured knee torque during takeoff and landing.
• Torque measurements were correlated with jump height and isokinetic extension torque.

Main Results:

• No significant difference was found in peak patellar tendon torques between takeoff and landing.
• Moderate correlations were observed between jump height and maximum takeoff torques (r=0.64) and isokinetic extension torque (r=0.67).
• A weak correlation was found between jump height and maximum landing torques (r=0.52).

Conclusions:

• Peak patellar tendon torques are comparable during jump takeoff and landing.
• The moderate correlation between jump height and takeoff torques suggests technique dependency.
• Modifying jumping techniques may reduce patellar tendon forces and potentially prevent patellar tendinopathy.