How does improper skeletal alignment in Kiba-dachi (Horse Stance) directly impact knee joint stability?

Improper skeletal alignment in Kiba-dachi (Horse Stance), a fundamental stance where the legs are wide and bent, significantly compromises knee joint stability primarily by creating uneven stress distribution. When the knees are not aligned directly over the feet, meaning they either cave inward (valgus) or bow outward (varus), the forces generated during the stance are no longer transmitted efficiently through the joint's designed load-bearing pathways. Specifically, knee valgus increases stress on the medial (inner) side of the knee, potentially leading to medial collateral ligament (MCL) strain or meniscus injury. Conversely, knee varus increases stress on the lateral (outer) side of the knee, potentially causing lateral collateral ligament (LCL) strain or lateral meniscus compression. Furthermore, if the pelvis is tilted anteriorly (forward), it disrupts the alignment of the femur (thigh bone) relative to the tibia (shin bone), causing excessive anterior shear force at the knee joint, increasing the risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. If the torso is leaning forward or backward, rather than being upright and balanced over the hips, this uneven weight distribution strains the ligaments and muscles surrounding the knee as they compensate to maintain balance, leading to fatigue and increased susceptibility to injury during movement or impact. Correct alignment, where the knees track directly over the toes and the weight is evenly distributed, ensures optimal force transmission and minimizes stress on the knee joint, promoting stability and reducing the risk of injury.