Abstract Summary
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a condition impacting the anterior knee and is exacerbated with running, squats, climbing stairs, or prolonged sitting. Altering running cadence, using a metronome (5-15% above baseline) has been shown to decrease knee joint forces and pain in individuals with PFPS. While a metronome may be effective, music at a specific beat frequency may be more enjoyable for runners. The purpose of this study was to determine the acute effects of music played at a specific beat frequency in order to impact cadence, knee flexion angle, and knee joint forces. Listening to music played at an increased beat frequency resulted in significant changes in cadence and peak knee flexion angle, but did not alter knee joint forces. Future research should better determine those who may be responsive to this type of intervention and to determine the long-term effects on running biomechanics and pain levels.
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