Do Biomechanical Loads Increase during Common Rehabilitation Exercises in Obese Individuals?

Squat and lunge are classic exercises that have become an integral part of lower-extremity strengthening and postoperative rehabilitation programs [1]. Despite their widespread use across age and BMI spectrums, very few studies have looked at the biomechanics of these exercises. Of existing studies, most have focused on younger, normal weight, populations. The influence of obesity on the performance of squat and lunge has not been documented [2]. Despite the potential for biomechanical differences from normal weight subjects, there are no published data showing that clinicians make different recommendations when prescribing exercises for obese individuals. The purpose of this study was to analyze and compare the biomechanics of obese and normal weight individuals, as measured by hip and knee moments, while performing common physical therapy rehabilitation exercises. Taking the biomechanical stresses and strategies into consideration during common exercises may help to inform rehabilitation approaches used for obese individuals.