Use the Back button in your browser to see the other results of your search or to select another record.

Detailed Search Results

Effects of a knee ligament injury prevention exercise program on impact forces in women [with consumer summary]
Irmischer BS, Harris C, Pfeiffer RP, de Beliso MA, Adams KJ, Shea KG
Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research 2004 Nov;18(4):703-707
clinical trial
5/10 [Eligibility criteria: Yes; Random allocation: Yes; Concealed allocation: No; Baseline comparability: Yes; Blind subjects: No; Blind therapists: No; Blind assessors: No; Adequate follow-up: Yes; Intention-to-treat analysis: No; Between-group comparisons: Yes; Point estimates and variability: Yes. Note: Eligibility criteria item does not contribute to total score] *This score has been confirmed*

Previous research suggests high impact forces generated during landings contribute to noncontact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. In women, neuromuscular differences appear to modify the ability to dissipate landing forces when compared to men. This study examined peak vertical impact forces (Fp) and rate of force development (RFD) following a 9-week, low-intensity (simple jump-landing-jump tasks) and volume (number of foot contacts per workout) plyometric-based knee ligament injury prevention (KLIP) program. Female subjects were randomly assigned into control (n = 14) and treatment (n = 14) groups. Treatment subjects attended KLIP sessions twice a week for 9 weeks, and control subjects received no intervention. Ground reaction forces (Fp and RFD) generated during a step-land protocol were assessed at study onset and termination. Significant reductions in Fp (p = 0.0004) and RFD (p = 0.0205) were observed in the treatment group. Our results indicate that 9 weeks of KLIP training altered landing strategies in women to lower Fp and RFD. These changes are considered conducive to a reduced risk of knee injury while landing.

Full text (sometimes free) may be available at these link(s):      help