Running Biomechanics Newsletter The most common method for the analysis of running mechanics is observational video analysis,

as it is inexpensive and simple to perform. When using this particular method, several basic parameters are important to be noted. Frontal plane view during Midstance: a) Joint center alignment: Refers to location of the knee joint center in relation to a line drown from the hip joint to the ankle joint. The knee joint should fall right on the line, while a medial position of the knee suggests a dynamic knee valgus. b) Lateral tilt of the pelvis: Refers to the alignment of the pelvis in relation to the horizontal. Females tend to present with 3-5 more degrees than males. c) Medial and Lateral foot placement: Refers to the relation of the foot in relation to the bodys line of gravity (LOG). At increased speeds, is normal to observe the foot placement closer to the LOG; however, if it occurs at slower running speeds it can potentially increase the strain in the lateral hip, thigh, and distal tibia. Sagittal plane view during Initial Contact: a) Foot contact angle: Used to classify the footstrike pattern as heel contact (> than 5 degrees), midfoot contact (0 degrees), or forefoot contact (<5 degrees) and determine impact-related loading. b) Foot placement: The placement of the foot in relation to the bodys line of gravity (LOG). Greater distances increase the breaking impulse. Foot placement closer to the LOG is recommended. c) Knee flexion angle: Recommended normative angle of knee flexion at initial contact is ~15-20 degrees. Decreased knee flexion angles promote a heelstrike pattern, which in turn, increase the impact forces at the foot. As part of the strategies for the management of running related injuries, modifying the running mechanics has recently become a popular trend. A simple strategy to reduce the impact forces and loads in the lower extremities is to increase

the cadence, which decreases the energy absorption required from the lower extremities. It is recommended to increase the cadence ~ 5-10% of ones preferred step rate. Other simple verbal cues that can be implemented to teach runners to correct body mechanics are: 1) Head: In line with the body during lean, with minimal movement, relaxed face, and controlled breathing. 2) Upper back: Neutral shoulder blades. 3) Arms: Swing from check to pocket while striding, staying inside close to the body. 4) Low back: Remains as flat as possible. 5) Lower extremities: Keep the knee slightly bent at heel strike, with a soft landing during strides. Specific running retraining protocols remain undetermined; however, biomechanical factors that contribute to non-contact running related injuries when identified and changed, have contributed to good clinical outcomes. Thus, it is important to take into consideration biomechanical analysis of running mechanics as part of the evaluation process of the running athlete. By Monica Arreaza, DPT, PES, CKTP, FMS References:

1. Derrick TR. The effects of knee contact angle on impact forces and accelerations. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2004;36(5):832-837. 2. Dicharry J. Kinematics and kinetics of gait: from lab to clinic. Clin Sports Med. 2010;29(3):347-364. 3. Heiderscheit BC, Chumanov ES, Michalski MP, et al. Effects of step rate manipulation on joint mechanics during running. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011;43(2): 296-302. 4. Schache AG, Blanch P, Rath D, et al. Differences between the sexes in the three-dimensional angular rotations of the lumbo-pelvic-hip complex during treadmill running. J Sports Sci. 2003;21(2):105-118. 5. HeiderscheitBC.Gaitretrainingforrunners:insearch of the ideal. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2011;41(12): 909-910.