Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to develop and validate a 3D model for calculating knee joint loads during seated cycling. A 3D inverse dynamics approach was used to calculate knee and ankle joint loads using kinematics and kinetics data. For such a model, four kinematics clusters and three pedal markers were used, integrated with a 6-component force/torque pedal dynamometer. Seven subjects performed one five-minute trial on 75% of their maximum power at fixed cadence of 85 rpms. Data from two consecutive samples of the same cycling trial (first and last minute) were used to validate the model with the mean difference between two samples, Cronbach’s alpha, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and p-value. Results showed high ICC (>0.735) and internal consistency (>0.700) with no statistically significant values (p > 0.050) except for crank angle of peak anterior force and peak axial forces at the knee and minimum normal force (p = 0.010) and minimum crank angle (p = 0.010) on the pedal. Further analyses are required to validate the model between days and to test the sensitivity to mechanical constraints.
Highlights
Cycling is becoming an increasingly popular activity with subsequent increase in overuse injury occurrence [1]
Most overuse injuries in cycling occur due to repetitive high loads applied to the joints
Results of the reliability analysis for pedal and knee loading are presented in Tables 1 and 2, respectively
Summary
Cycling is becoming an increasingly popular activity with subsequent increase in overuse injury occurrence [1]. This has resulted in a higher number of physiotherapy and sport science specialists working in the field to prevent and treat the injured cyclists using advanced diagnostic approaches in a process of adjusting body position (i.e., bike fitting), off-the-bike assessment, and equipment optimization [2]. Most overuse injuries in cycling occur due to repetitive high loads applied to the joints. These loads normally excel when riding in low gear, long uphill riding, or with incorrect body position [4,5]. To reduce the loads on the lower extremity and test the efficacy of specific constraints, a comprehensive three-dimensional (3D) model of the lower extremity loading needs to be used
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
