Navigating the complexities of knee valgus can be challenging, leading some clinicians to even attempt to avoid it. In reality, knee valgus is a frequent occurrence in daily activities and sports, and the focus should be on controlled, rather than uncontrolled, knee valgus.

For many providers, the first instinct might be to train the hip abductors isometrically or concentrically to keep the knee out of valgus positions, however, this approach lacks applicability to real-world scenarios where such positions are often inevitable.

The missing puzzle piece is developing eccentric control to manage these positions safely.

Two exercises stand out in their efficacy for this. The first, known as the standing clamshell, introduces loading in a quarter squat position and cycles the knee through both valgus and abduction. This not only trains the hip abductors concentrically but also enables eccentric control when the knee moves into the valgus position.

The second exercise involves unilateral loading and aims to simulate real-life instances where knee valgus occurs. By teaching the lower extremities to control the valgus position before coming back out of it, these exercises provide a more nuanced and effective approach for managing knee valgus.

So, rather than viewing knee valgus as an issue to avoid, see it as a biomechanical challenge to master—doing so will not only improve your treatment outcomes but also elevate your skills as a clinician.

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