Case Study #2

Analysis of Knee Impact Under Variable Speed and Loading Conditions

A detailed study of ground reaction forces and stress distribution in the patellar ligament and meniscus during accelerated movements with directional changes.

Technical Challenge

In activities with sudden accelerations and decelerations, impact forces on the knee joint can exceed seven times body weight. The goal was to accurately map these forces and identify critical structural stress points under conditions of unexpected lateral loading, a major risk factor for injuries.

Methodological Approach

We implemented a hybrid motion capture system with high-precision reflective markers (200 Hz) synchronized with embedded force plates. Raw kinetic data was processed through Kalman filtering algorithms and integrated into FEM (Finite Element Method) models of the knee structure, allowing for 3D visualization of stress propagation in real-time.

  • 3D kinematic capture with 12 optical cameras for tracking bone segments.
  • Kistler force plates for measuring GRF (Ground Reaction Force) vectors.
  • FEM modeling with adaptive mesh for increased resolution in meniscal areas.

Implementation and Results

The study highlighted that the critical moment of maximum stress does not occur at the initial impact, but at 80-120 ms after contact, during the motion absorption phase, when lateral shear forces peak. Stress distribution in the medial meniscus was 42% higher than in the lateral one under directional change conditions.

Key Conclusion

Training strategies that improve neuromuscular control during the motion damping phase can significantly reduce accumulated stress in cartilaginous structures, preventing long-term degenerative injuries.

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