The effect of different stud designs on lower limb biomechanical demands in football-specific movements

ACL injuries are a big concern in football, where quick pivots, sudden cuts, and hard landings can strain the knee. These injuries are not only common but also serious—they often require surgery and a lengthy recovery, and they can leave players with lasting knee instability and inactivity. For many, this can impact their playing careers and long-term health, making finding new ways to help prevent ACL tears crucial.
There is emerging evidence that football footwear, specifically stud design, may play a role in reducing ACL injury risk. Studies have shown that stud flexibility and configuration can influence ground interaction, affecting knee and hip joint mechanics. For example, stud flexibility might alter knee abduction/adduction moments and hip flexion forces, both of which are associated with ACL strain
during sudden direction changes, jumps, and landings. However, the biomechanical relationship between stud design and ACL injury risk remains inconclusive due to limited research.
This study aims to explore the effect of different stud designs on lower limb biomechanical demands in lab-based football-specific movements. More specifically, we will explore how different mechanical proprieties of the studs (flexibility) can affect lower-limb joint movements and loading. By studying how different stud features affect movement biomechanics and potential ACL injury factors, we will contribute to identifying stud designs that can help reduce the risk of ACL injuries.