Correlation between video-analysed running technique and the lower limb injuries in long-distance runners

Abstract

Objective: The main goal of this study was to determine the correlation between running pattern and the lower limb injuries in long-distance runners.Materials and methods: The study comprised 23 long-distance runners (7 women, 16 men). The research used a questionnaire and video-analysis of running technique on a treadmill. The running on the treadmill was recorded from 3 views. Recordings were assessed in slow-motion. The following features were assessed: a foot strike pattern, a tibia angle at loading response, the maximum knee flexion angle during the stance phase, the maximum hip extension during the late stance phase, the maximum heel eversion angle, the distance between the knees and the pelvic drop angle. The subjects were divided into two groups – without previous trauma and with a history of previous trauma of a particular part of the lower limb.Results: The studies revealed two correlations. Firstly, in the group without a previous knee joint injury, there were significantly more people with a correct ankle-calcaneus eversion when compared to the group with a previous knee joint injury. Secondly, in the group without a hip joint injury, there were significantly more people with a correct hip extension than in the group with a previous hip joint injury. Moreover, it was shown that the correct position of tibia was strongly correlated with a correct foot positioning pattern.Conclusions: Previous knee joint injury may have influence on the enlarged ankle-calcaneus eversion. Having suffered a hip joint injury may limit the extension of a hip joint, thus affecting the running technique. It is necessary to continue research on a larger study group and with more precise research methods such as using 3- instead of 2-dimensional motion analysis.