Rethinking knee injury prevention strategies: joint-by-joint training approach paradigm versus traditional focused knee strengthening

Knee injuries remain a significant challenge in competitive sports, impacting athletic performance, long-term joint health, and healthcare resource utilization. Traditional prevention strategies often focused primarily on strengthening the knee itself. However, emerging evidence supports a joint-by-joint training approach (JBJTA), emphasizing the interconnected kinetic chain, particularly the trunk, hips, ankles, and feet. This commentary explores the potential of JBJTA in knee injury prevention by enhancing hip and ankle mobility, trunk and foot stability, and proprioception. The JBJTA posits that optimal joint function and adaptability across the kinetic chain contribute to reduced knee stress and improved…