1. Introduction
It is with great pleasure that we present this Editorial, marking the completion of our Special Issue on Lower Extremity Biomechanics and Injury Prevention. Over the course of this collection, we have had the privilege of exploring a diverse array of research contributions that will significantly enhance our understanding of the intricate relationship between biomechanics and injury risk in athletes [1].
2. Advancements in Technology
In this Special Issue, motion capture systems played a pivotal role in unraveling the complexities of dynamic movements such as running, jumping, and cutting [2]. These technological advancements have empowered researchers to delve into joint angles, forces, and movements, providing unprecedented insights into movement patterns associated with increased injury risk [3].
3. Strength Training Insights
Contributions in strength training research have been particularly illuminating. The examination of exercises like the barbell squat and Nordic hamstring exercise has not only elucidated their impact on lower extremity strength and power but has also underscored their potential in reducing injury risk when executed correctly [4]. The practical applications of strength training in injury prevention add a tangible dimension to our collective knowledge, bridging the gap between theory and athletic performance.
4. Identifying Gaps and Future Directions
While celebrating the strides made, it is crucial to acknowledge the gaps that persist in our understanding of effective lower extremity injury prevention [5]. This Special Issue serves as a call to action, urging researchers to continue pushing boundaries and exploring uncharted territories. By inviting contributions ranging from practical applications to advanced biomechanical analyses, we strive to foster a comprehensive understanding that will ultimately inform evidence-based strategies for preventing lower extremity injuries in athletes [6].
5. Acknowledgments and Gratitude
The success of this Special Issue would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of the contributing authors, reviewers, and our esteemed Editorial Board. Each paper represents a valuable piece in the puzzle, contributing to the broader narrative of advancing sports science and athlete well-being.
In conclusion, this Special Issue stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the research community in advancing our knowledge of lower extremity biomechanics and injury prevention. As we move forward, let this collection inspire further inquiry and innovation, propelling us toward a future where athletes can perform at their best, supported by evidence-based practices.
Acknowledgments
The accomplishments of this Special Issue owe their success to the commitment and proficiency of the authors who contributed, the reviewers, the Managing and Assistant Editors, and our respected Editorial Board.
Conflicts of Interest
The author declares no conflicts of interest.
List of Contributions
- Boraczyński, M.; Magalhães, J.; Nowakowski, J.; Laskin, J. Short-Term Effects of Lower-Extremity Heavy Resistance versus High-Impact Plyometric Training on Neuromuscular Functional Performance of Professional Soccer Players. Sports 2023, 11(10), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11100193.
- Feria-Madueño, A.; Hewett, T.; Sánchez-Arteaga, A.; Sañudo, B. Neuromuscular Response during Different Side-Cutting Maneuvers and Its Influence on the Risk of Knee Injuries. Sports 2023, 11(10), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11100190.
- Thieschäfer, L.; Klütz, J.; Weig, J.; Dos’Santos, T.; Büsch, D. Development of a Cutting Technique Modification Training Program and Evaluation of its Effects on Movement Quality and Cutting Performance in Male Adolescent American Football Players. Sports 2023, 11(9), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11090184.
- Ammendolia, A.; de Sire, A.; Lippi, L.; Ammendolia, V.; Spanò, R.; Reggiani, A.; Invernizzi, M.; Marotta, N. Cryo plus Ultrasound Therapy, a Novel Rehabilitative Approach for Football Players with Acute Lateral Ankle Injury Sprain: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. Sports 2023, 11(9), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11090180.
- Augustsson, J.; Alt, T.; Andersson, H. Speed Matters in Nordic Hamstring Exercise: Higher Peak Knee Flexor Force during Fast Stretch-Shortening Variant Compared to Standard Slow Eccentric Execution in Elite Athletes. Sports 2023, 11(7), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11070130.
- Gashi, F.; Kovacic, T.; Gashi, A.; Boshnjaku, A.; Shalaj, I. Predicting Risk Factors of Lower Extremity Injuries in Elite Women’s Football: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sports 2023, 11(9), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11090187.
References
- Parkkari, J.; Kujala, U.M.; Kannus, P. Is it possible to prevent sports injuries? Review of controlled clinical trials and recommendations for future work. Sports Med. 2001, 31, 985–995. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
- Chan, K.M.; Fong, D.T.; Hong, Y.; Yung, P.S.; Lui, P.P. Orthopaedic sport biomechanics—A new paradigm. Clin. Biomech. 2008, 23 (Suppl. 1), S21–S30. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed][Green Version]
- Koźlenia, D.; Domaradzki, J. Effects of Combination Movement Patterns Quality and Physical Performance on Injuries in Young Athletes. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18, 5536. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
- Alt, T.; Schmidt, M. The ANHEQ Evaluation Criteria: Introducing Reliable Rating Scales for Assessing Nordic Hamstring Exercise Quality. Sports Med. Open 2021, 7, 91. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
- Bathe, C.; Fennen, L.; Heering, T.; Greif, A.; Dubbeldam, R. Training interventions to reduce the risk of injury to the lower extremity joints during landing movements in adult athletes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open Sport Exerc. Med. 2023, 9, e001508. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
- Rudisill, S.S.; Varady, N.H.; Kucharik, M.P.; Eberlin, C.T.; Martin, S.D. Evidence-Based Hamstring Injury Prevention and Risk Factor Management: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Am. J. Sports Med. 2023, 51, 1927–1942. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content. |
© 2023 by the author. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).