What the study found
Carrying load increased estimated joint forces and changed running mechanics. Peak tibial stress differed markedly between walking and running, while cumulative stress per stride was more similar.
Participants and protocol
The study combined movement measurements in women with musculoskeletal and finite-element modelling to estimate mechanical stresses under load-carriage conditions.
What this cannot establish
Modelled stress is not an observed stress-fracture rate. The study does not establish a safe loaded-running limit or show that changing one modelled variable prevents injury.
Publication details
- Record
- PubMed 28330449
- Publication types
- Comparative Study · research-article · Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
- Indexed subjects
- Hip · Muscle, Skeletal · Tibia · Ankle Joint · Knee Joint
- Source record checked
- 2026-10-18
Publication type and subject indexing describe the record; they are not a quality grade or proof of a benefit. An abstract does not replace a review of the full methods and results.
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Performance Science Lab
Research summaries for endurance athletes, with study context, practical protocols, and clear limitations.
Open guideInjury risk performance research
Running injuries have multiple contributing factors, including previous injury and training history. No single load measure explains individual risk.
Open guideInjury risk research for endurance athletes
Running injury risk is multifactorial. Consider previous injury, training exposure and recovery together; a load number alone cannot determine your risk.
Open guide