## 1 Introduction
Specifically, when the knee is in a less flexed position, it lacks the necessary stability to absorb the forces generated during activities such as cutting or landing, resulting in greater loading on the ligament [9; 10]. Additionally, large knee valgus angles and moments can distort the alignment of the knee joint, further amplifying the risk of ACL injury [9; 17; 18]. Elevated ground reaction forces, particularly during high-impact activities, contribute to this problem by imposing greater loads on the knee structure. [PERSON] et al. proposed a theory positing that violent quadriceps contractions can lead to excessive joint compression loads, subsequently increasing the loads on the ACL [19]. This mechanism suggests that, during rapid movements, the interplay between muscle contractions and joint positioning can significantly elevate the risk of injury. Thus, a comprehensive investigation of the effects of foot rotation strategies on knee mechanics is crucial for optimizing athletic training and reducing knee injury risks. By systematically analyzing how different foot positioning impacts knee biomechanics, we can identify specific movement patterns that minimize ACL loading. Understanding these mechanisms will inform the development of more effective preventive measures, allowing coaches and trainers to implement targeted interventions that enhance athlete safety and performance. With the advancement of finite element analysis (FEA) methods in biomechanics, models constructed from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) data can accurately represent the anatomical structure and stress distribution of the knee joint [11; 18; 20]. This powerful analytical tool enables researchers to create detailed three-dimensional representations of the knee, facilitating the simulation of various dynamic conditions and loading scenarios. By assessing the impact of different foot-cutting strategies on knee mechanics--particularly in relation to the ACL--we can gain deeper insights into the mechanisms underlying ACL injuries. The capability of FEA to model the stress distribution in the knee joint across various motion states is particularly significant [21; 22; 23; 24]. It elucidates how changes in foot positioning--such as toe adduction, neutral alignment, or abduction--affect the loads experienced by the knee during activities like side-cutting. Therefore, it is hypothesized that variations in the ankle plantarflexion angle will correlate with reduced impact loads on the knee, particularly when the foot's forward angle is in an inward position. Conversely, the elevated risk of injury associated with an externally rotated toe position strategy, compared to a toe-neutral position or internally rotated toe position, is expected to increase the stresses on the ACL and surrounding knee structures, thereby heightening the risk of injury. Modifying the side-cutting technique to incorporate an internally rotated touchdown strategy at initial contact may effectively reduce the ground reaction forces and knee loading, thus mitigating the potential for knee injuries during side-cutting tasks. To this end, this study aims to enrich the existing body of knowledge regarding athletic training and rehabilitation strategies by critically evaluating these hypotheses through finite element modeling. By meticulously analyzing the effects of various foot-cutting strategies on knee mechanics, this research elucidates the underlying mechanisms contributing to knee injuries. This understanding not only aids in the identification of high-risk movement patterns but also provides a scientific foundation for developing effective prevention strategies. By identifying and promoting optimal cutting techniques, coaches and athletes will be better equipped to reduce the risk of ACL injuries, ultimately enhancing athletic performance and safety in sports.