Peer-Reviewed Journal Details
Mandatory Fields
Lowther D.;O'Connor A.;Clifford A.;O'Sullivan K.
2012
December
Physiotherapy Practice and Research
The relationship between lower limb flexibility and hamstring injury in male Gaelic footballers
Published
()
Optional Fields
Flexibility Gaelic football Hamstring Injury
33
1
22
28
Background: Hamstring injuries are common in Gaelic football and have been associated with reduced flexibility in other sports. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between lower-limb-flexibility and previous hamstring injury in male Gaelic footballers as this has not been previously investigated. Methods: Eighteen male club-level Gaelic footballers (9 previously injured, 9 non-injured) underwent four different muscle length tests bilaterally, using standard goniometry or a tape measure. Hamstring muscle length was measured using the passive-knee-extension test. Gastrocnemius muscle length was measured using the dorsi-flexion lunge test. Iliopsoas and rectus femoris muscle lengths were measured using the modified Thomas test. Results: Hamstring and gastrocnemius flexibility were significantly greater (p < 0.05) in the non-injured limb compared to the injured limb in the injured group. There were no significant differences in flexibility (p > 0.05) for any of the other named muscle groups for within-subject or between subject comparisons. Conclusion: This group of Gaelic footballers with a history of hamstring injury who had returned to full sporting participation demonstrated significantly reduced hamstring and gastrocnemius flexibility of their injured limb when compared to their non-injured limb. The retrospective study design did not allow for interpretation of whether these changes were present before or after injury. Prospective research on a larger sample size is needed to examine the association of lower limb flexibility and hamstring injury further.
2213-0683
10.3233/PPR-2012-33105
Grant Details