Which exercise program improves on postural control and functional alignment in individuals with dynamic knee valgus?...

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Excessive inward knee movement, often termed knee valgus, is a common issue during dynamic activities.
• This movement pattern is associated with an increased risk of lower extremity injuries.
• Neuromuscular and Pilates exercises are proposed interventions to address this issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of neuromuscular exercise versus well-structured Pilates exercise training.
• To evaluate the impact of these interventions on excessive inward knee movement during dynamic activities.
• To assess changes in frontal plane knee motion, muscle strength, and postural control.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted.
• Thirty-six participants were divided into Neuromuscular, Pilates, and control groups.
• A six-week intervention period involved 18 supervised sessions, with assessments before and after.

Main Results:

• The Pilates group showed significant improvements in frontal plane projection angle during drop jumps (p=0.002) and rectus femoris strength (p=0.006).
• Both neuromuscular and Pilates groups demonstrated significant reductions in frontal plane angle during single leg squats (p=0.007 and p=0.002, respectively).
• Both intervention groups exhibited significant gains in postural control, including total and anterior-posterior stability.

Conclusions:

• Pilates exercise may be a safe and effective method for reducing excessive inward knee movement.
• Both neuromuscular and Pilates interventions can enhance neuromuscular control and postural stability.
• These findings suggest potential benefits for injury prevention and performance enhancement.