Knee Isokinetic Profiles and Reference Values of Professional Female Soccer Players

Abstract

Few studies have previously evaluated isokinetic parameters in female soccer players in comparison to those in males. The aim of this study was to describe normative quadriceps (Q) and hamstring (H) muscle strength values in professional female soccer players and to examine differences between dominant leg (DL) and nondominant leg (NDL). A standardized test protocol of concentric knee extension and flexion test protocol was conducted using the dynamometer isokinetic system (IsoMEd 2000). All the participants were healthy female professional soccer players from Spanish first and second division teams. Players were assessed for peak torque (PT) and maximum work (MW) values at 60°/s, 180°/s, and 240°/s. The mean difference was 7.17 (p-value = 0.0036), 4.4 (p-value = 0.0386), and 4.25 Nm (p-value = 0.0241) at speed 60°, 180°, and 240°/s, respectively. No statistically significant differences were detected for H–Q values between DL and NDL. This difference was 6.44 (p-value = 0.0449), and 5.87 J (p-value = 0.0266) at speed 60°, and 180°/s. The present study can be a tool that health professionals working with female professional soccer players in their care can use to assess and monitor a particular player.

Recommendations for the Isokinetic Test of Female’s Soccer Players Knee: A Systematic Review

“…One study compared Kin Com and Lido isokinetic machine and found no difference in muscle strength (Nm) between the Biodex and Lido for CON FLEX and CON EXT [43]. Isomed system was used in one study [4], and no ICC is available.…”

“…Three studies [4,36,49] show a small negative D/ND ratio. This fact can be ex-plained by the presence of left sided players in the examined sample.…”

Biomechanical Factors Predisposing to Knee Injuries in Junior Female Basketball Players

“…Therefore, we can suggest that lower strength in women than in men may be one of the factors favoring an ACL injury. High levels of strength in the knee flexor/extensor musculature can prevent lower limb injuries in athletes, and specifically of the ACL [ 40 ], since the strength relationship between the quadriceps and ischiosural musculature is considered a relevant factor in the stability of the knee [ 41 , 42 , 43 ]. Therefore, an alteration of this musculature may increase the risk of lower limb injuries [ 20 ].…”

The Isokinetic Method in Female Uninjured Female Soccer Players: A Survey of Applications and Common Mismatches

“…Three studies [31,32,33] show a small negative D/ND ratio. This fact can be explained by the presence of left sided players in the examined sample.…”