The influence of landing pattern modification on lower limb kinematics in runners with patelofemoral pain

Abstract

In Brazil, the number of marathon runners has grown over 40% in the past 5 years, 23% of these runners are females. The running injuries are frequent, especially in the knee joint, and the patellofemoral pain (PFP) have the higher incidence. Recently, it has been hypothesized that modification of the running technique has potential to reduce the demand on the lower limb, and the landing with the forefoot on the ground is one of these modifications. Studies showed that this landing pattern can reduce the vertical impact load on the lower limb, the peak knee flexion and peak hip adduction in healthy runners. However, there are no studies that evaluated the effect of running technique on the three-dimensional kinematics of the lower limb in runners with DPF. Thus, this study aims to assess the immediate effects of the landing pattern modification, landing with the forefoot, on the hip, knee and ankle joint angles during the stance phase of running. Thirteen runners with PFP aged 18 to 35 years will be evaluated. The hip, knee and ankle kinematics will be evaluated using a motion analysis system (Qualysis Medical AB, Sweden) and the confirmation of the landing pattern will be made by Pedar-X System. For data analysis, the paired test t-Student will be used to compare the kinematic variables before and after the modification of the running technique for parametric variables or Wilcoxon test for non-parametric variables, adopting a 5% significance level. It is expected that the data obtained in this study will help in the development of training programs, treatment and prevention of PFP in this population of athletes. (AU)