What type of muscle imbalances are often associated with knee valgus?

Knee valgus, which is characterized by the inward collapse of the knees during activities such as squatting or jumping, is commonly associated with certain muscle imbalances. An underactive gluteus medius is a key factor here. The gluteus medius plays a crucial role in stabilizing the pelvis and controlling lower limb movement, particularly in maintaining proper knee alignment. When this muscle is weak, it cannot effectively engage to keep the knee in a stable position, leading to a tendency for the knee to collapse inward.

This muscle imbalance can lead to compensatory movements by other muscle groups, contributing to improper knee alignment and potential injury. Strengthening the gluteus medius is often recommended as part of a corrective exercise program to address knee valgus and improve overall lower body biomechanics. The focus on this particular muscle helps enhance joint stability and reduce the risk of knee-related issues in individuals experiencing knee valgus.