Hi Philip,
Ankle bio-mechanics sure have an effect on on the loads experience by the knee. I'd suggest to take a look at the inverted pendulum calculations in bio-mechanics.
If you already have gait data, you can try this software to model these kind of effects:
https://simtk.org/projects/opensim
Good luck!
I also agree that limited talocrural mobility can increase shear stress on the knee as well as excessive subtalar mobility can increase the valgus stress. Whether is there research to demonstrate the added shear force with gait or running is a good question.
Of course there is a direct relationship between ankle/foot and knee statics and mechanics. A simple classical method to correct and/ or reduce frontal stress deviations in the knee is to use a medial or lateral sole wedge on the shoes or corrective insoles.
I 100% agree and back Panayot. It is basic structural engineering. Share the load equally only makes sense.
Yes, ankle mechanics can influence mechanics, positioning and the weight bearing load of the knee. Each time the foot hits the ground it influences the, knee and hip and pelvic motions. Restoring sound mechanics of the foot and ankle if possible is critical first step. The knee is the middle of a chain of joints
Consider the supporting axis of the lower limb: it runs normally from the center of the hip joint through the knee joint (between the medial and lateral femur condyles) and through the midst of the trochlea of the talus. A shift of the supporting axis to the lateral side will cause a valgus knee with a consecutive increasement of the load of the lateral femur-tibial joint and vice versa.
I think we all "think" there is a relationship, but can anyone point to any peer reviewed research?
Here is one on research gate:
Effect of Ankle Taping on Knee and Ankle Joint Biomechanics in Sporting Tasks
and another one:
The optimum position of arthrodesis of the ankle. A gait study of the knee and ankle.
Buck, P; Morrey, B F; Chao, E Y
Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery - American Volume: September 1987
Archive: PDF Only
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Philosophy
- Ethics