Correlation between upper limb proprioception and stroke effect of table tennis players

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Proprioception is crucial for fine motor control in sports.
• Table tennis demands precise upper limb movements for effective strokes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess upper limb proprioception in table tennis players.
• To determine the relationship between proprioception and stroke performance.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study with 106 right-handed players.
• Evaluated joint position sense and force sense.
• Measured stroke effect (ball speed, rotation, placement).

Main Results:

• Force sense correlated with ball speed, rotation, and placement.
• Elbow joint position sense accuracy linked to placement and rotation.
• Higher accuracy at 60° elbow flexion/extension than 30°.
• Skill level impacted proprioception and stroke effect.

Conclusions:

• Superior force sense enhances stroke power and effect.
• Accurate elbow joint position sense improves ball rotation and placement.
• Increased use of 60° movements may enhance proprioception.
• Precise neuromuscular control is key to table tennis performance.