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A new method for quantifying pronation in overpronating and normal runners
1Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary, Alberta, CANADA.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|March 1, 1996
Summary
This study introduces a new method to measure ankle joint pronation during running, relative to a runner's total range of motion. This approach offers a clearer way to identify runners at risk of injury compared to previous methods.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Previous research on ankle joint complex (AJC) motion and running injuries focused on neutral positions.
- No studies quantified running pronation relative to the AJC's total range of motion (ROM).
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a method for quantifying ankle joint pronation during running relative to total AJC ROM.
- To establish a testable hypothesis for identifying runners predisposed to injury based on pronation relative to end ranges of motion.
Main Methods:
- A six degree of freedom fixture measured active AJC ROM.
- Kinematic data during running were collected using common methods.
- A novel method related ROM data to kinematic data for pronation quantification.
Main Results:
- Overpronating runners showed significantly different maximum eversion and abduction values compared to normal runners.
- Measuring pronation from a neutral position did not yield a clear hypothesis for injury prediction.
- Measuring pronation relative to end ranges of motion provided a clear, testable hypothesis.
Conclusions:
- The developed method effectively quantifies pronation relative to total AJC ROM during running.
- This new measurement approach offers a promising tool for prospectively identifying runners at risk of injury.