Ankle biomechanics during four landing techniques
1Department of Engineering Mechanics, USAF Academy, CO 80840-6240, USA. Brian.Self@usafa.af.mil
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|July 28, 2001
Summary
Athletes may not fully utilize their energy absorption during landings, increasing ankle injury risk. Understanding landing mechanics is crucial for injury prevention in sports.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Injury Prevention
Background:
- Ankle injuries are common in athletic events.
- Landing techniques significantly influence injury risk.
- Kinematics and forces during landings are linked to trauma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze forces and accelerations in different landing strategies.
- To calculate Achilles tendon forces and stiffnesses.
- To inform injury prevention by understanding landing mechanics.
Main Methods:
- Four drop conditions from a 12-inch height were tested: Bent Knee (BN), Stiff Knee-Natural plantar flexors (SN), Stiff Knee-Plantar flexors absorbing impact (SP), and Stiff Knee-Heels absorbing impact (SH).
- Peak vertical forces and accelerations were measured.
- Achilles tendon forces and stiffnesses were calculated.
Main Results:
- The Stiff Knee-Heels (SH) condition exhibited the highest peak vertical forces (2418 N) and tibial accelerations (20.7 G).
- The Stiff Knee-Plantar flexors absorbing impact (SP) condition resulted in the highest peak Achilles tendon force.
- Average Achilles tendon stiffness was calculated at 166,345 N x m(-1).
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest athletes may not optimize their energy absorption during landings.
- This underutilization of potential may contribute to ankle injuries.
- Data supports further investigation into ankle injury mechanisms during landings.
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