Correlation between Proprioception and Dynamic Postural Control during Ovulatory Phase of the Menstrual Cycle

Abstract

Decreased proprioception and dynamic postural control (DPC) have been reported to be a contributing factor in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in females. Understanding the relationship between proprioception and DPC during different phases of the menstrual cycle may provide a better understanding of gender-specific characteristics of ACL injury risk. The primary purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between DPC and both joint kinesthesia (JK) and joint position sense (JPS) in females during the ovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle. Nine moderate to highly active females. Subjects made two visits to the research facility over a two-month period. DPC, JK, and JPS were measured over two consecutive menstrual cycles during ovulatory phase (24-48 hours after LH surge detection). Joint position sense was tested using a starting angle of 90° when moving into extension, and 0° when moving into flexion. Target angles were 30°, 50°, and 70° moving into flexion, and 20°, 40°, and 60° moving into extension. Joint kinesthesia was tested moving into flexion and extension at both 15° and 45°. Moderate to high correlations were observed on six of 60 variables in the ovulatory phase of the first menstrual cycle evaluated. Although a few statistically significant correlations were identified, the clinicians may focus on those meaningful variables when they plan the rehabilitation program for prevent ACL injury. Also, while DPC deficits may increase risk of ACL injury, the data does not support that reduced DPC is due to menstrual phase-specific deficits in proprioception.