Effects of a 4-week neuromuscular balance training program on knee proprioception, functional performance, and...

Neuromuscular and balance-based training programs have been shown to reduce lower extremity injury risk by improving biomechanical and sensorimotor control. However, randomized controlled trials examining the effects of short-term interventions on landing mechanics (LESS-RT) and related sensorimotor outcomes in national-level female wrestlers are limited.

This parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted in a supervised training environment integrated with regular wrestling practice. Twenty-two female wrestlers were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 11) or a control group (n = 11). The intervention consisted of a 4-week neuromuscular balance-based training program. Landing mechanics were assessed using LESS-RT. Secondary outcomes included knee proprioception via joint position reproduction, force sense error using a Pressure Biofeedback Unit, static balance (Single-Leg Stance Test), and functional performance (Single-Leg Hop Test Battery).

The intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in landing mechanics, with LESS-RT decreasing from 13.54 ± 1.29 to 9.18 ± 0.98 (p < < 0.001). Improvements were also observed in knee proprioception, static balance, and single-leg functional performance. Between-group comparisons favoured the intervention group across all outcome measures.

A short-term neuromuscular balance training program leads to meaningful improvements in landing mechanics and associated sensorimotor functions, suggesting potential for reducing knee injury risk in female wrestlers.

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT07504666, registered on March 18, 2026.