The effects of conventional and oval chainrings on patellofemoral loading during road cycling: an exploration using musculoskeletal simulation

Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of the current investigation was to utilize a musculoskeletal simulation approach to resolve muscle forces during the pedal cycle, in order to specifically examine the effects of chainring geometry on patellofemoral loading during cycling.
METHODS: Fifteen healthy male recreational cyclists rode a stationary cycle ergometer at a fixed cadence of 70 RPM in two chainring conditions (round and oval). Patellofemoral loading was explored using a musculoskeletal simulation and mathematical modelling approach. Differences between chainring conditions across the entire pedal cycle were examined using 1-dimensional statistical parametric mapping and patellofemoral force experienced per 20 km was explored using a paired samples t-test.
RESULTS: No significant (P>0.05) differences in patellofemoral force or stress were found throughout the pedal cycle between chainring conditions. It was also shown that no significant (P>0.05) differences in patellofemoral force per 20 km joint were evident (round 38576.40 N/kg·s & oval = 35637.00 N/kg·s).
CONCLUSIONS: The current analysis found no effects of chainring geometry, on the forces experienced by the patellofemoral joint during the pedal cycle.