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A postural program to reduce dynamic knee valgus during single-limb squatting in young athletes: a preliminary study
Saverio Sabina1, Maria R Tumolo2, Roberto Guarino1
1National Research Council, Institute of Clinical Physiology, Branch of Lecce, Lecce, Italy.
The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness
|February 22, 2022
Summary
Improving hamstring flexibility through a simple postural program significantly reduced dynamic knee valgus (DKV) in young athletes. This intervention may serve as a protective strategy against knee injuries in sports.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Dynamic knee valgus (DKV) is a movement pattern linked to anterior cruciate ligament injuries and patellofemoral pain syndrome in athletes.
- Posterior muscle chain rigidity, particularly hamstring tightness, is often implicated in DKV.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of a postural program focused on hamstring stretching and abdominal strengthening in reducing DKV in young athletes.
- To investigate the impact of improved posterior muscle flexibility on DKV parameters.
Main Methods:
- A six-week program involving hamstring stretching and abdominal muscle activation/strengthening was implemented in athletes aged 12-18.
- Dynamic knee valgus was quantified using the frontal plane projection angle (FPPA) during a single-limb squat.
Main Results:
- Twenty-one athletes with significant DKV (FPPA≥10°) completed the program.
- A mean FPPA reduction of 8.1±7.9° was observed, with significant asymmetry.
- A statistically significant average improvement of -37±25% in DKV was recorded post-intervention.
Conclusions:
- Enhancing posterior muscle chain flexibility, specifically targeting hamstring tightness, appears effective in reducing DKV in young athletes.
- This accessible postural program shows potential as a protective strategy for knee injuries in sports training.
