Reduce Injury Risk Research Articles

Harnessing Foot Mechanics: The Role of Lacing Techniques in Enhancing Comfort and Reducing Injury Risk

Background: Lacing techniques are often viewed as a functional necessity, but recent research has highlighted their role as a customization tool for foot health and comfort. This review synthesizes findings from studies examining the biomechanical effects of different lacing patterns on pressure distribution, tendon loading, and foot mechanics. Methods: We analyzed studies that investigated various lacing techniques, including tightness and patterns. Objective measurements, such as pressure insoles and cadaveric models, were used to quantify the effects. Diverse study populations, including individuals with foot health concerns and athletes, were considered. This study was conducted as a scoping review following the JBI methodology, adhering to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Results: The studies collectively reveal that lacing patterns significantly influence dorsal pressure distribution during activities like running. Customized lacing can optimize foot biomechanics, reducing the risk of injuries related to abnormal pressure distribution. A total of 27 records were identified from the initial search. After removing duplicates and screening, four articles were included in the final review. Additionally, certain lacing configurations were found to reduce peak Achilles tendon tension, a crucial finding for injury-prone individuals. Conclusions: Proper lacing techniques are not just a functional aspect but a means to enhance foot health and prevent injuries. Healthcare professionals can provide personalized lacing recommendations to patients, with implications for those with specific foot conditions, athletes, and individuals at risk of injuries. The importance of patient education on the significance of lacing techniques cannot be overstated, emphasizing the need for informed choices when lacing shoes. These findings underscore the multifaceted role of lacing techniques in promoting foot health and well-being.

Impact of various training programs on lower limb biomechanics in adolescent Latin dancers

Latin dance attracts many young dancers globally. While these adolescents exhibit flexibility and imitation skills, their muscular strength and neuromuscular control often fall short, making complex movements challenging. Thus, incorporating functional training methods is essential for enhancing performance and reducing injury risk. This study, a total of 30 adolescent female Latin dancers aged 12–14 years with at least one year of training and competition experience were recruited for this study and randomly divided into two groups: One group of 15 students (average height 154.37 ± 3.82 cm, average weight 45.31 ± 5.29 kg) received traditional Latin dance training, and the other group of 15 students (15 students average height 154.73 ± 4.28 cm, average weight 44.63 ± 4.37 kg) received traditional Latin dance training and based on traditional Latin dance training, functional exercise was carried out for 12 weeks. A Vicon motion capture system, force platform, and electromyography were used to collect biomechanical data. Paired samples t-tests assessed significant differences between groups pre- and post-intervention. The experimental group showed significant improvements post-intervention: in the sagittal plane, ankle joint angles improved by 14.01% to 52.21% (p < 0.001); in the coronal plane, knee joint angles increased by 0% to 31.21% (p < 0.001) and 66.67% to 100% (p < 0.001); in the horizontal plane, hip joint angles improved by 4.99% to 76.00% (p < 0.001). Muscle activation showed significant increases in gastrocnemius lateral (p = 0.016), gluteus maximus (p = 0.001), tibialis anterior (p = 0.014), and rectus femoris (p < 0.001). Functional training enhances joint flexibility, muscle activation, balance, and overall performance in adolescent Latin dancers. Integrating functional training into regular routines can improve athletic performance and lower injury risk, informing the development of targeted training programs.

Translating player monitoring into training prescriptions: Real world soccer scenario and practical proposals

Data-driven training prescription based on previous training or match data is thought to be associated with better training outcome, compared to prescription without considering any monitoring data. Understanding the complex relationship between training load, physical performance, fitness status, fatigue and injury risk represents a challenge for health and performance practitioners and researchers. Although studies have revealed a positive correlation between training load and injury risk, this cause-effect relation cannot be determined given the multifactorial nature of injuries. Additionally, conflicting findings have been published explaining the relationship between training load and injuries, underlining the importance of training load management, prescription, and communication within the multidisciplinary team to improve physical performance and reduce injury risk. In this sense, practitioners may benefit from practical examples based on training load data to make informed decisions for prescribing training. This narrative review provides real-world examples of training decisions based on training load data in soccer, including training prescription, drill design and multidisciplinary team communication. Finally, a framework was provided to make informed training prescription from a physiological standpoint and elucidate the relationship between training load and injury risk.

Impact of Custom Foot Orthosis on Dynamic Balance in Sports Enthusiasts with Flat Feet

Background: Custom foot orthoses (CFOs) have been extensively studied for their effectiveness in redistributing plantar pressure, aligning foot structure, and enhancing stability in individuals with flatfoot (Desmyttere et al., 2019; Xu et al., 2020). Flatfoot, characterized by reduced or absent arches, often leads to overpronation and compromised musculoskeletal alignment, impacting dynamic balance and elevating injury risk during physical activity (Hawke et al., 2015). This study examines the impact of CFOs on dynamic balance specifically in sports-active individuals with flatfoot, where optimal balance is critical due to rapid directional changes and stability demands. By providing customized support, CFOs may serve as a practical intervention to improve stability and support safe sports participation. Methods: This quantitative, experimental study used a one-group pre-test and post-test design with purposive sampling. Twelve subjects participated, and dynamic balance was measured using the Modified Bass Dynamic Balance Test. Results: Statistical analysis with a paired-sample t-test yielded a p-value of 0.002, indicating a significant positive effect of CFOs on dynamic balance (p < 0.005). Conclusion: The findings indicate a positive effect of CFOs on dynamic balance in flatfoot individuals engaged in sports. It is recommended that individuals with flatfoot, particularly those involved in sports, consider CFOs to improve balance and reduce injury risk. Regular assessments by healthcare professionals may further optimize orthotic benefits for enhanced performance and stability.

Perceptual Response Training for Reduction of Injury Risk Among High School Girls’ Soccer Players

Background/Objectives: Neural processes involved in visual detection, decision-making, and motor plan execution are believed to play a key role in the avoidance of sport-related injuries, but very little evidence exists to guide the development of training activities for the optimization of brain function. Immersive virtual reality provides a means to precisely measure the amount of time that elapses from visual stimulus presentation to the initiation of a motor response (i.e., perceptual latency) or its completion (i.e., response time). Methods: The median value of a metric quantifying both the speed and accuracy (i.e., the rate correct per second of response time) of 50 high school female soccer players was used to assign those who exhibited suboptimal performance to a training program. Training sessions required less than 5 min and the number of sessions completed over a 7-week period ranged from 3 to 13 (median = 5). Results: Among 42 players available for follow-up assessment at 8 weeks after the first practice session (training n = 19; comparison n = 23), the results of regression-discontinuity analyses demonstrated statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) for metrics representing fast/accurate movement initiation (i.e., the rate correct score for perceptual latency, p = 0.016) and across-trial consistency (i.e., perceptual latency variability, p = 0.027). From the first practice session to the end of the soccer season, 12 injuries were sustained by 10 players (four concussions and eight musculoskeletal injuries). A time-to-event analysis demonstrated strong associations with perceptual latency variability ≥ 0.143 (Hazard Ratio = 15.43, p = 0.011) and a lifetime history of at least one concussion (Hazard Ratio = 8.84, p = 0.008). Conclusions: The strong association of movement initiation consistency with the avoidance of concussion or musculoskeletal injury suggests that the training program may have a highly beneficial far-transfer effect.

COMPREHENSIVE INJURY PREVENTION STRATEGIES FOR FOOTBALL PLAYERS

Injury prevention in football is a critical issue for athletes, coaches, and health professionals, given the sport's dynamic movements that elevate the risk of muscle and joint injuries. Effective strategies should incorporate specialized physical training and physiotherapeutic interventions to optimize player protection and performance. Preventive training programs, emphasizing muscle strengthening and proprioception, are essential for reducing injury risks. Specific exercises targeting the hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, and core enhance joint stability and mitigate overload injuries. Neuromuscular training, which includes balance exercises and plyometrics, improves proprioception and helps prevent falls and twists. Flexibility through regular stretching and dynamic warm-ups, such as the FIFA 11+, is crucial for preparing players physically and lowering injury incidence. Additionally, physiotherapists play a vital role in injury prevention through functional assessments to identify muscle imbalances and develop corrective exercise programs. Manual therapy techniques, joint stabilization exercises, and preventive rehabilitation further contribute to maintaining soft tissue quality and preventing muscle strains. Monitoring training load is another fundamental aspect of injury prevention, as abrupt changes in training intensity can lead to injuries. Using tracking technologies allows for better control of players' physical efforts. Studies indicate that implementing structured injury prevention programs significantly reduces injury rates and enhances athletic performance. Research highlights the importance of a multicomponent approach, individualized training, and load management to lower hamstring injuries. Collaboration among athletes, coaches, and health professionals is crucial to create a safe training environment. As football evolves, prioritizing injury prevention is essential for players' health, success, and career longevity.

Physiological Response and Sports Injury Risk Relevant Biomechanics in Endurance Obstacle Course Races

Obstacle course races (OCR) have experienced significant growth in recent years, with millions of participants worldwide. However, there is limited research on the specific physiological demands and injury prevention strategies required for these events. This study aimed to analyze the physiological responses and injury risks in participants of a 5 km (Sprint) and 13 km (Super) OCR. Sixty-eight participants were assessed for cortical arousal, leg strength, isometric handgrip strength, blood lactate, heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, body temperature, urine composition, spirometry values, hamstring flexibility, lower limb stability, foot biomechanics, and scapular kinematics, one hour before and immediately after the races. The results showed a significant decrease in leg strength (Sprint: r = −0.56, p < 0.01; Super: r = −0.54, p = 0.01) and urine pH (Sprint: r = −0.70, p = 0.03; Super: r = −0.67, p = 0.01) in both distances, with increases in urine colour, protein, and glucose (Sprint: p < 0.04). In the 13 km race, lower limb stability decreased significantly post-race (r = −0.53, p = 0.01). Positive correlations were found between performance and pre-race handgrip strength (Sprint: r = 0.71, p = 0.001; Super: r = 0.72, p = 0.01) and spirometry values (FVC, FEF 25–75%, FEV1) (Sprint: r = 0.52, p = 0.031; Super: r = 0.48, p = 0.035). Thermoregulation capacity, reflected in a higher pre-race body temperature and lower post-race body temperature, also correlated with improved performance (r = 0.49, p = 0.046). Injury risk increased post-race, with a significant decline in lower limb stability (p < 0.05). These findings highlight the importance of targeted training programs, focusing on grip strength, leg strength, respiratory muscle training, and hydration strategies to optimize performance and reduce injury risk in OCR athletes.

Serve Dynamics: Applying a Bibliometric Approach in the Kinetics and Kinematics Analysis for Flat and Topspin Serves in Tennis

Objectives. The study aimed to completely examine the existing research on the investigation of kinetics and kinematics analysis for flat and topspin serves in tennis, with a special focus on improving performance and reducing injury risks for players. Material and Methods. In order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the data, Scopus searched three variables in each record: (1) the author’s name, (2) the journal name in which the paper was published, and (3) the total number of citations. Bibliometric analysis was used as part of the analysis. To gain a thorough and accurate comprehension, the data was analyzed and interpreted using a variety of data triangulation techniques. Building distance-based co-occurrence networks for bibliometric analysis and synthesis was carried out using the VOS viewer software. The classification and grouping of the terms derived from titles, abstracts, and keywords were carried out based on their degree of interconnectedness. The terms “Serve Dynamics in Tennis”, “Kinetic Analysis in Tennis serve”, “Kinematic Analysis in Tennis serve”, and “Flat and Topspin serve in Tennis” are frequently used in the study, although their meanings are generally interpreted differently. The search yielded 125 papers and 2807 citations, which were used in the study conducted from 2001 to 2024. Results. The study’s findings revealed the primary authors, countries, and subject areas that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of research patterns, influential studies, authorship dynamics, thematic clusters, and international collaborations in the analysis of the kinetics and kinematics for flat and topspin serves in tennis. Conclusions. The study concludes by consolidating current information and identifying potential avenues for broadening the interdisciplinary scope of tennis serve research.

Using motion capture technology to assess gait patterns in runners and investigate injury risks: A short review

Motion capture technology has become integral in studying gait patterns among runners to understand their implications for injury risks. This review synthesizes current literature to examine methodologies and findings related to using motion capture technology for gait analysis in runners. A systematic search was conducted across major academic databases to identify relevant studies published in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings. Inclusion criteria focused on studies utilizing motion capture technology to assess biomechanical factors associated with running-related injuries.The review highlights key biomechanical parameters analyzed through motion capture, including joint angles, forces, and muscle activations during running. Studies consistently report on the relationship between gait abnormalities and various injuries such as stress fractures, patellofemoral pain syndrome, and Achilles tendonitis. Practical implications for injury prevention strategies are discussed including personalized gait assessments, targeted interventions such as gait retraining, and advancements in footwear design aimed at optimizing running mechanics and reducing injury risks. Motion capture technology offers a robust platform for advancing our understanding of gait mechanics in runners and their impact on injury prevention. Future research directions should focus on standardizing methodologies, integrating multi-modal data, and applying findings to enhance clinical practice and athletic performance.

Comparison of quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength ratios between dominant and non-dominant legs in Saudi under-17 and under-19 premier league football players: A cross-sectional study

Football’s global popularity is often overshadowed by frequent lower limb injuries, particularly hamstring strains, which are linked to imbalances in the strength ratio of hamstring-to-quadriceps (H/Q). Research on these factors among Saudi Premier League players, specifically in Madinah City, is limited. Our study is a cross-sectional study that assessed 42 male professional football players from Ohoud Football Club, divided into Underage 17 (UD- 17) and Under age 19 (UD-19) of age groups. The Strength of muscle for hamstrings and quadriceps, as well as the H/Q ratio, was measured using handheld dynamometers (HDD), and demographic data were analyzed using SPSSv26. Results showed that UD-19 players had significantly greater quadriceps strength on both dominants (dominant and non-dominant) sides compared to UD-17 players, with no significant differences in strength of hamstring. The ratio of hamstring to quadriceps was significantly higher in UD-17 players on the dominant side compared to UD-19 players, but statistically significant differences were not found on the non-dominant side. These results suggest that quadriceps strength develops with age and training, potentially reducing injury risk, while the strength of hamstring stabilizes earlier. Tailored training programs focusing on quadriceps strength and balanced hamstring development are recommended for improving injury prevention and performance. Future research involving larger and more diverse samples could further validate these findings and provide a deeper understanding of muscle dynamics in young football players.

Is the Frequency of a Targeted Neuromuscular Training Program a Factor in Modifying Knee Joint Loading During Typical Netball Landing Tasks?

Unplanned sidestep cutting and forward single-leg jump-landing contribute to non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in netball. Neuromuscular training programs (NMTPs) have shown promising results in reducing injury risk in certain populations when compliance is high. Compliance is easier to achieve when NMTPs are effective yet require minimal time for completion. Once- and thrice-weekly intervention groups would be equally effective in reducing knee abduction and internal rotation moments during forward single-leg jump landing and unplanned sidestep cutting. Randomized controlled trial. Level 3. External peak knee abduction and peak knee internal rotation moments during unplanned sidestep cutting and forward single-leg jump-landing were assessed pre- and post-intervention for 17 elite-level female netballers assigned randomly to either a once-weekly or thrice-weekly group. Regular netball training continued throughout the intervention, which lasted 6 weeks (30 minutes/session). One-way analysis of covariance (α = 0.05) was utilized to compare post-intervention peak knee abduction and peak knee internal rotation moments between groups, controlling for pre-intervention knee moments during the forward single-leg jump-landing and unplanned sidestep cut. Paired t tests were used to examine within-group changes in knee moments pre- versus post-intervention. For unplanned sidestep cuts on the right leg, both groups differed significantly, with the once-weekly group displaying a decrease in peak knee internal rotation moments [F(1,14) = 5.23; P = 0.04] whereas the thrice-weekly group did not. No other significant group interactions were found. A condensed NMTP with targeted exercises, performed once-weekly as part of regular training, shows potential to reduce peak knee internal rotation moments that are injurious to the ACL during unplanned sidestep cutting in adult female netballers. A once-weekly targeted NMTP would pose minimal disruption to a high-performing athlete's training schedule and likely increase compliance to ensure the success of the NMTP.

Quadriceps Architectural Adaptations in Team Sports Players: A Meta-analysis.

Resistance training is the most effective strategy to modify muscle architecture, enhancing sport performance and reducing injury risk. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of high loads (HL) versus lower loads (LL), maximal versus submaximal efforts, and high frequency (HF) versus low frequency (LF) on quadriceps architectural adaptations in team sports players. Five databases were searched. Vastus lateralis thickness, fascicle length and pennation angle, and rectus femoris thickness were analyzed as main outcomes. Overall, resistance training significantly improved muscle thickness and pennation angle, but not fascicle length. LL led to greater fascicle length adaptations in the vastus lateralis compared to HL (p=0.01), while no substantial differences were found for other load comparisons. Degree of effort and training frequency did not show meaningful differences (p>0.05). In conclusion, LL lengthen the fascicle to a greater extent than HL, and training with LL twice a week could maximize architectural adaptations, whereas the degree of effort does not appear to be a determinant variable on quadriceps architectural adaptations.

Optimizing Resistance Training for Sprint and Endurance Athletes: Balancing Positive and Negative Adaptations.

Resistance training (RT) triggers diverse morphological and physiological adaptations that are broadly considered beneficial for performance enhancement as well as injury risk reduction. Some athletes and coaches therefore engage in, or prescribe, substantial amounts of RT under the assumption that continued increments in maximal strength capacity and/or muscle mass will lead to improved sports performance. In contrast, others employ minimal or no RT under the assumption that RT may impair endurance or sprint performances. However, the morphological and physiological adaptations by which RT might impair physical performance, the likelihood of these being evoked, and the training program specifications that might promote such impairments, remain largely undefined. Here, we discuss how selected adaptations to RT may enhance or impair speed and endurance performances while also addressing the RT program variables under which these adaptations are likely to occur. Specifically, we argue that while some myofibrillar (muscle) hypertrophy can be beneficial for increasing maximum strength, substantial hypertrophy can lead to macro- and microscopic adaptations such as increases in body (or limb) mass and internal moment arms that might, under some conditions, impair both sprint and endurance performances. Further, we discuss how changes in muscle architecture, fiber typology, microscopic muscle structure, and intra- and intermuscular coordination with RT may maximize speed at the expense of endurance, or maximize strength at the expense of speed. The beneficial effect of RT for sprint and endurance sports can be further improved by considering the adaptive trade-offs and practical implications discussed in this review.

How Shell Add-On Products Influence Varsity Football Helmet Performance?

PurposeThe study purpose was to investigate the laboratory-based performance of three commercially available shell add-on products under varsity-level impact conditions.MethodsPendulum impact tests were conducted at multiple locations (front, front boss, rear, side) and speeds (3.1, 4.9, 6.4 m/s) using two helmet models. Tests were performed with a single add-on configuration for baseline comparisons and a double add-on configuration to simulate collisions with both players wearing shell add-ons. A linear mixed-effect model was used to evaluate peak linear acceleration (PLA), peak rotational acceleration (PRA), and concussion risk, which was calculated from a bivariate injury risk function, based on shell add-on and test configuration.ResultsAll shell add-ons decreased peak head kinematics and injury risk compared to controls, with the Guardian NXT producing the largest reductions (PLA: 7.9%, PRA: 14.1%, Risk: 34.1%) compared to the SAFR Helmet Cover (PLA: 4.5%, PRA: 9.3%, Risk: 24.7%) and Guardian XT (PLA: 3.2%, PRA: 5.0%, Risk: 15.5%). The same trend was observed in the double add-on test configuration. However, the Guardian NXT (PLA: 17.1%; PRA: 11.5%; Risk: 62.8%) and SAFR Helmet Cover (PLA: 12.2%; PRA: 9.1%; Risk: 52.2%) produced larger reductions in peak head kinematics and injury risk than the Guardian XT (PLA: 5.7%, PRA: 2.2%, Risk: 21.8%).ConclusionIn laboratory-based assessments that simulated varsity-level impact conditions, the Guardian NXT was associated with larger reductions in PLA, PRA, and injury risk compared to the SAFR Helmet Cover and Guardian XT. Although shell add-ons can enhance head protection, helmet model selection should be prioritized.

The Incidence of Clinical Injuries among Undergraduate Dental Students: A Prevention Protocol

Dental students are frequently exposed to percutaneous injuries (PCIs) due to the nature of their clinical work, which involves sharp instruments and close patient contact. The COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized the need for stringent biosafety measures and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Despite these precautions, injuries remain prevalent, highlighting the need for comprehensive education and training in biosafety and infection control. This study investigates the incidence and causes of injuries among undergraduate dental students during clinical sessions. This study was conducted at the Department of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, focusing on injuries reported from 2021 to 2024. Data were collected through self-reported clinical records. The primary variables assessed included the type of injury, the instrument involved, the clinical procedure performed, and the immediate actions taken post-injury. Serological testing was conducted on students and patients to assess the risk of the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. The findings reveal a high prevalence of injuries, with needles being the most common cause (51.4%), followed by other tools such as dental probes (25.7%) and burs (8.6%). The most frequent injury type is piercing (74.2%), primarily affecting the fingers (88.6%). Periodontal treatments, restorative procedures, and endodontic treatments are the main activities leading to injuries, with 17.1% of injuries being caused by each. No statistically significant results are recorded. Despite regular medical records for most patients treated by injured students, serological testing shows significant positivity rates for HCV and HBV. Notably, most injured students demonstrate their commitment to safety by adhering to recommended post-exposure protocols, including wound cleaning, disinfecting, and serological testing. Furthermore, the impact of COVID-19 heightened the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and reinforced occupational health standards. Our study highlights the critical need for enhanced biosafety awareness and training among undergraduate dental students to reduce injury risks.

Functional resistance training program reduces injury risk in Australian Football players

Functional resistance training program reduces injury risk in Australian Football players

Running shoe cushioning properties at the rearfoot and forefoot and their relationship to injury: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial on leisure-time runners

Previous work has demonstrated the protective effect of shoe cushioning on injury risk in leisure-time runners, but most models currently available on the market have greater cushioning than those investigated...

Do they really return to early? Investigating the causal effect of rehab time on injury risk after return to play in elite football

In elite football, injury risk is considerable. Consequently, optimal rehabilitation and an adequate time point of return-to-play (RTP) are crucial. The elevated injury risk in the weeks after RTP (e.g. Orchard & Best, 2002; Wangensteen et al., 2016) and the time course of biological healing processes (Orchard & Best, 2002) nourished the speculation that players generally return to early. While the previously reported negative association between rehab time and injury risk after RTP (e.g. Beischer et al., 2020; Della Villa et al., 2021; Orchard & Best, 2002) points in the same direction, the truism “Correlation does not imply causation.” must be considered. To the best of our knowledge, the causal effect of rehab time on injury risk has not been investigated so far. This work aims to contribute towards closing this gap in knowledge. Specifically, to scrutinize if a reduction in injury risk may be expected when RTP is delayed. Previous time-loss injuries and match exposures of players currently playing in the European top leagues (Germany, Austria, France, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, United Kingdom) were collected from public sources and episodes (index injury-RTP-subsequent injury) constructed. Data analysis was conducted in R. Considering the time dependence of the excess injury risk after RTP, we analyzed injury occurrence after RTP within a fixed time frame (28 days). A robust scaling approach was used for making rehab time comparable between index injury diagnoses. Exposure within the 28-day period was adjusted for eventual time loss due to subsequent injury. The association between rehab time and injury was analyzed using logistic regression. Odds ratios (OR) were calculated from regression coefficients and adjusted for baseline probability to avoid overestimation of relative risk (RR). Two approaches were used to delineate a potential causal effect: (a) sensitivity analysis for the putative confounder (using Cornfield’s inequality) and (b) path analysis which due to the simple causal diagram could be implemented by including exposure in the logistic regression model. Eight thousand six hundred and forty-four episodes could be included among which 1,245 (14 %) had a subsequent injury within 28 days. There was a highly significant negative association between scaled rehab time and injury risk (RR 0,896), which was more pronounced for recurrences (RR 0,815). Cornfield’s inequality indicates that exposure would have to be lower by at least ~10% for every interquartile range of rehab time of the respective index injury to account for the observed association. While this is substantial, early return is in fact closely associated with higher exposure and this association accounts entirely for the observed association between rehab time and injury risk (Figure 1). Note that Figure 1 also shows that high exposures are observed exclusively after an early return. We conclude that the negative association between rehab time and injury risk is largely accounted for by higher exposures after early return. However, following from the limitations associated with predicting outside the range of previously observed values, the virtual absence of high exposures after long rehab (for the respective diagnosis) impedes on predicting the effect of prolonging rehab time.

Functional Exercise Induces Adaptations in Muscle Oxygen Saturation in Division One Collegiate Butterfly Swimmers: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study investigates the impact of a five-week functional exercise intervention designed to enhance the muscular endurance of the posterior shoulder musculature, aiming to mitigate shoulder fatigue and overuse injury. Twelve Division I collegiate butterfly swimmers were recruited and evenly randomized into exercise (EX) and control (CTRL) groups. Weekly 100-yard butterfly sprints were performed, with Muscle Oxygen Saturation (SmO2) continuously monitored using a wearable near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) device. This study is among the first to utilize wearable NIRS devices to monitor SmO2 underwater during swimming, demonstrating that a targeted 5-week exercise program significantly improves posterior shoulder endurance, as evidenced by increased Posterior Shoulder Endurance Test (PSET) scores and distinctive SmO2 adaptations in the EX-group compared to the CTRL group. These findings suggest that targeted dryland exercises can enhance posterior shoulder endurance with long-term implications for potentially reducing injury risk and improving performance.

The Effect of Weight Distribution in the Foot on Balance and Plantar Pressure in Female Adolescent Athletes.

It is widely reported that the weight distribution in each foot is approximately 60% in the rearfoot and 40% in the forefoot. For balance training, it is recommended to transfer some weight to the forefoot. However, it is still unclear whether fore-rear foot weightbearing ratio affects balance and plantar pressure parameters. There is a relationship between the forefoot weightbearing ratio and balance and plantar pressure in female adolescent athletes. Cross-sectional study. Level 3. A total of 91 adolescent female athletes aged between 10 and 19 years were included in the study. Weightbearing ratios of the forefoot, balance, and plantar pressure were assessed using a plantar pressure platform (FootWork, AMCube IST). In the static and stabilometric evaluation, the weightbearing ratio (%), mean and maximum plantar pressure (kPa), center of pressure (CoP) total, antero-posterior and medio-lateral sway length (cm), CoP surface area (cm2), and length over area (cm-1) were recorded. In the dynamic evaluation, the maximum pressure (kPa) acting on each foot was recorded. Two groups with forefoot weightbearing ratio <40% and ≥40% were compared. Maximum pressure values in static conditions, CoP anteroposterior, and total sway length were significantly different between these groups. In addition, as the amount of load transferred to the forefoot increased, CoP total and anteroposterior sway length increased postural stability. Although postural control mechanisms are quite complex, plantar pressure and postural control parameters can be varied by optimizing rear-to-fore foot weight transfer. This study will contribute to the development of appropriate training and rehabilitation strategies to optimize athlete performance and reduce injury risk.