Hiraku Nagahori (Interdisciplinary Health Sciences) and Kai-Yu Ho (Physical Therapy) published their article, "" in Frontiers.
This is the first study to explore how the thickness of kneecap cartilage relates to how the knee moves during squatting in people with and without kneecap pain. The study found that individuals with thinner kneecap cartilage tended to rotate their knees outward more during squats. This suggests that unusual knee movement may be linked to changes in cartilage health — and could play a role in causing or prolonging kneecap pain. Clinicians should closely observe knee alignment during movement, as correcting these patterns may help protect the joint and reduce pain over time. The study is published published in Frontiers in Sports and Active Living.
Kai-Yu Ho is an associate professor and interim chair of the Department of Physical Therapy. Hiraku Nagahori is a Ph.D. student.
