Evaluating the relationship between the landing error scoring system and single leg squat in ROTC cadets

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine
• Human Movement Science

Background:

• Neuromuscular control deficits are crucial in predicting injury risk.
• The Landing Error Scoring System (LESS) and single leg squat (SLS) are common screening tools.
• Understanding the correlation between LESS and SLS is important for effective injury prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the correlation between the Landing Error Scoring System (LESS) and single leg squat (SLS) in assessing neuromuscular control.
• To determine if LESS and SLS identify similar deficits in Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Cadets.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 56 ROTC members.
• Jump-landing and single leg squat tasks were recorded using markerless motion capture (PhysiMax).
• Errors in frontal and sagittal planes were automatically graded.

Main Results:

• Average LESS scores were 5.36 ± 2.93 errors.
• Average SLS errors were 3.93 ± 1.03 on the left and 4.30 ± 1.73 on the right.
• No significant associations were found between LESS and SLS errors.

Conclusions:

• The LESS and SLS likely capture different aspects of neuromuscular control due to task variations.
• Clinicians should consider using both LESS and SLS screening methods.
• Utilizing both tools can help identify a broader range of high-risk movements.