Analysis of Influencing Factors of Dynamic Knee Valgus Under Different Functional Tasks: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Purpose

Dynamic knee valgus (DKV) is a multidimensional movement impairment associated with the development of various lower extremity injuries, including anterior cruciate ligament and patellofemoral joint pathologies. This narrative review aimed to examine how functional task demands, characterized by variations in movement velocity, limb involvement, and cognitive or neuromuscular load, affect DKV and its associated risk factors.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar, including studies that assessed DKV through 2D or 3D motion analysis in healthy individuals.

Results

The strength of the association between DKV and contributing factors (e.g., hip/core strength, ankle dorsiflexion) is highly task-dependent. Unilateral, low-velocity tasks showed stronger correlations, especially with hip abductors and lateral core muscles (e.g., external obliques responsible for lateral trunk flexion torque). High-velocity and fatigued conditions produced inconsistent results due to methodological variability, limited use of eccentric strength testing, and differing DKV definitions. Importantly, underexplored areas such as bilateral task contexts, sex-specific influences, and neuromuscular fatigue require further investigation.

Conclusion

This review emphasizes the need for standardized assessment protocols and task-specific interventions to enhance movement quality and reduce injury risk. Future research should focus on ecologically valid designs and integrated strength assessments to better inform clinical and athletic training practices.

Keywords

Movement complexity / Injury prevention / Lower extremity / Neuromuscular control

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Beijing Sport University