Does the Powers™ strap influence the lower limb biomechanics during running?

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Running-related injuries affect a significant portion of runners (25.9%-72%).
• Increased hip internal rotation and adduction during running are linked to injuries like patellofemoral pain.
• The Powers™ strap was developed to control hip and knee motion, but its effect on running biomechanics was unproven.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of the Powers™ strap in reducing hip internal rotation during running.
• To analyze the strap's impact on hip and knee kinematics during the stance phase of running.

Main Methods:

• 22 healthy participants (11 male, 11 female) ran under two conditions: with and without the Powers™ strap.
• Three-dimensional motion analysis using Qualisys cameras and force data from AMTI force plates were employed.
• Paired sample t-tests were used to analyze lower limb kinematic and kinetic data at a 95% confidence interval.

Main Results:

• The Powers™ strap significantly decreased both hip and knee internal rotation throughout the stance phase of running.
• The device demonstrated a notable influence on hip motion during running activities.

Conclusions:

• The Powers™ strap shows potential in modifying hip mechanics during running.
• This intervention may offer benefits for individuals experiencing lower limb injuries, particularly those related to abnormal hip and knee motion.
• Further research is recommended to evaluate the Powers™ strap's effectiveness in runners with existing injuries, such as patellofemoral pain.