Flexibility and posture assessment in relation to hamstring injury

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics
• Athletic Training

Background:

• Hamstring strain injuries are common in athletes.
• Previous research has not clearly established the link between hamstring flexibility, posture, and injury history.
• Understanding these factors is crucial for injury prevention and rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate differences in hamstring flexibility and postural components between athletes with and without a history of hamstring strain injury.
• To identify specific postural deviations associated with hamstring strain injuries.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-four athletes were divided into injured and noninjured groups based on hamstring strain history.
• Ten postural components, including lumbar lordosis, were assessed.
• Hamstring flexibility was measured in both legs for all participants.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in hamstring flexibility were found between the injured and noninjured groups.
• A significant difference was observed in low back posture (lumbar lordosis), with the injured group exhibiting poorer posture.
• No other postural component differences were significant between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Poorer low back posture, specifically increased lumbar lordosis, is associated with a history of hamstring strain injury in athletes.
• Hamstring flexibility alone does not appear to be a differentiating factor.
• Regular postural assessment in athletes is recommended for injury risk management.