Cadence control training alters patellofemoral joint mechanics and lower-limb joint work distribution in runners

Objective This study aimed to examine the effects of a 12-week cadence control training program on patellofemoral joint mechanics and lower-limb joint work distribution in runners, thereby providing a theoretical basis for optimizing running strategies and reducing running-related injury risk. Methods A total of 44 recreational runners were randomly assigned to a control (n = 22) and an experimental group (n = 22). The former performed conventional running training, while the latter underwent cadence control training for 12 weeks. Three-dimensional kinematic and kinetic data were collected before and after the intervention using the Simi Motion capture system and Kistler force platforms, respectively. Patellofemoral joint mechanical parameters and joint work contribution ratios were subsequently calculated. Result Post-training, the experimental group exhibited a significant increase in cadence and positive ankle joint work contribution, accompanied by significant reductions in step length, patellofemoral joint stress, and knee joint work contribution compared with pre-training values. Conclusion Twelve weeks of cadence control training significantly modified the patellofemoral joint mechanics and joint work distribution in runners. An increased cadence reduced patellofemoral joint loading and induced a distal shift in the relative contribution of lower-limb joint work from proximal to distal segments, which may represent a biomechanical mechanism underlying the alleviation of knee joint load. Therefore, cadence-increasing running strategies are recommended, particularly for runners experiencing patellofemoral pain, to mitigate the risk of knee joint injury.