INTRODUCTION

Most runners are all too familiar with the uncomfortable aches and pains that occur in their joints after running. According to R.K. Wexler (1995), most running injuries affect the knee, shin, ankle, and hip. Why do such injuries occur? Research shows that increases in mileage and intensity, as well as running on altered surfaces can result in injury (O'Toole, 1992). Such injuries can hinder running performance. For example, injury at the hip joint can lead to decreased range of motion at the joint (van Mechelen et al., 1992). However, few researchers have investigated the effect of running on a medial-laterally slanted surface. This study was done to further examine this concept, and the effects it has on the hip and knee joints.

The purpose of this study was to investigate how running on a medial-laterally slanted surface effected running form, specifically its effects on the hip and knee joints. In order to investigate this matter, a comparison was made between running on a flat surface and a medial-laterally slanted surface. The subject was filmed while running on a treadmill, and the video was then analyzed. Further research on this topic may prove beneficial in the prevention of running injuries.