1- University of Tehran , hemn.m.64@gmail.com 2- University of Guilan 3- University of Tehran
Abstract: (8352 Views)
Background and Aim: In addition to high cost of treatment, anterior cruciate ligament tear leads to lesser participation in sports, secondary injury and mental problems. Therefore, prevention of ACL injury in athletes is a top priority in many studies. The aim of this study was to conduct a review over screening tests for neuromuscular imbalance causing non-contact ACL injuries.
Material and Methods: Scientific citations search engines such as PubMed, Medline, and ScienceDirect were looked for relevant articles using the following keywords: "Screening Test", "Neuromuscular Imbalance" and "Non-Contact ACL Injury" during the previous two decades.
Results: Hop tests have high reliability and there is a statistically significant correlation between lower extremity symmetry index of this test and isokinetic knee extensor strength. Static and dynamic balance tests have high reliability and validity and their results have correlation with ACL injury. Both double-leg squat test and single leg squat test are used to assess poor neuromuscular control of the trunk, dynamic flexibility, strength of hip, and balance. Modified Landing Error Scoring System Tests are used to identify movement patterns that increase the risk of non-contact ACL injury. In order to identify the most common neuromuscular imbalance related to ACL injuries, we used tuck jump test. Video drop-jump screening test was used to assess valgus alignment in knee.
Conclusion: Familiarity with reliable and valid screening tests related to non- contact ACL injuries will be of benefit to researchers specialized in ACL for prevention of injuries. They will be able to select appropriate tests to identify neuromuscular imbalance in people at risk of ACL injury. Therefore, researchers can provide more specific corrective exercise programs.
Keywords: Screening Test, Neuromuscular Defects, Non-Contact ACL Injury
Received: Sep 7, 2014 Accepted: Feb 1, 2015