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Comparative Analysis of Lower Limb Kinematics between the Initial and Terminal Phase of 5km Treadmill Running
Published on: July 17, 2020
Patellofemoral joint compression forces in backward and forward running
Paulien E Roos1, Nick Barton, Robert W M van Deursen
1Department of Physiotherapy, School of Healthcare Studies, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK. RoosPE@Cardiff.ac.uk
Journal of Biomechanics
|April 17, 2012
Summary
Backward running (BR) significantly reduces patellofemoral joint compression forces (PFJCF) compared to forward running (FR). This reduction is primarily due to altered knee moments and ground reaction forces, making BR a viable exercise option for managing PFP.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is a prevalent condition often exacerbated by high patellofemoral joint compression forces (PFJCF).
- Backward running (BR) has been proposed as a therapeutic exercise potentially reducing PFJCF.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare peak PFJCF between backward running (BR) and forward running (FR) at identical speeds.
- To identify biomechanical factors contributing to any observed differences in PFJCF during BR versus FR.
Main Methods:
- Twenty healthy participants completed both forward and backward running trials at a consistent speed.
- Kinematic and ground reaction force data were collected, followed by inverse dynamics and PFJCF analysis.
Main Results:
- Backward running demonstrated significantly lower peak PFJCF (3.4±1.4 BW) compared to forward running (4.5±1.5 BW).
- The primary driver for this difference was a reduced peak knee moment during BR (124±51 Nm) versus FR (157±54 Nm).
- Differences in knee moments were explained by variations in ground reaction force magnitude, knee flexion angle, and center of pressure location.
Conclusions:
- Backward running effectively reduces patellofemoral joint compression forces compared to forward running.
- This effect is mediated by biomechanical adjustments in knee moments and ground reaction force characteristics.
- Backward running presents a beneficial exercise modality for individuals experiencing PFP due to decreased PFJCF.
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