Patellofemoral joint forces during ergometric cycling

We estimated the patellofemoral joint forces generated during pedaling on a bicycle ergometer. Our calculations were based on measurements from a force transducer mounted on the pedal, 16-mm cine-film sequences, and biomechanical models of the cycling motion and of the patellofemoral joint. Six healthy male subjects cycled at different work loads, pedaling rates, saddle heights, and pedal foot positions. The maximum patellofemoral compressive force was 905 N (1.3 times body weight [BW]) when cycling with an anterior foot position at 120 W, 60 rpm, and middle saddle height. The mean peak compressive force between the quadriceps tendon and the intercondylar groove was 295 N (0.4 BW), and the patellar-tendon and quadriceps-tendon strain forces were 661 N (0.9 BW) and 938 N (1.3 BW), respectively. The patellofemoral joint forces were increased with increased work load or decreased saddle height. Different pedaling rates or foot positions did not significantly change these forces.