Patellofemoral joint loading during forward and backward lunges

Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is a common pathology that often requires rehabilitation exercises such as lunges to strengthen leg musculature. We examined the joint reaction forces at the knee during different phases of forward and backward lunges. Peak quadriceps force and patellofemoral (PF) joint reaction force were found to be lower during backward lunges. Such lunge modification may produce lower knee stress during rehabilitation exercises aimed at treating PFP.