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Published on: March 3, 2018
Effect of warming up on knee proprioception before sporting activity
1Northwick Park Hospital, Watford Road, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3UJ, UK. mjbartle@freenetname.co.uk
Background:
It is now generally accepted that the ligamentous structures of the knee not only act as mechanical restraints but also have a neurophysiological role in joint function and protection. A report that knee joint laxity increases with exercise raised the question as to whether there is any compensatory change in joint position appreciation.
Objective:
To test whether there is a compensatory mechanism for increased ligamentous laxity during normal levels of activity.
Methods:
Joint position appreciation was measured, using a previously reported technique, in the knees of sportsmen at rest and after warm up.
Results:
Joint position appreciation was found to be significantly more sensitive after warm up (p = 0.005).
Conclusions:
These findings indicate that joint position appreciation within the knee accommodates physiological changes within the ligaments and muscles after exercise.
