In our previous blog, we discussed the importance of pre-season screening for athletes. Now, let’s delve into the specific tests we utilize at RHP Physiotherapy and the crucial reasons behind their inclusion.
Range of Motion:
- Hip Flexor Length: Restricted hip flexor length can limit the ability to effectively sprint and kick, impacting speed and power on the field.
- Hamstring Length: Inadequate hamstring flexibility can result in movement inefficiency, which might also impact injury risk.
- Slump Test: This test helps identify potential nerve or spinal issues that can affect leg function and contribute to pain or weakness.
- Ankle Range: Limited ankle dorsiflexion can alter running mechanics, increasing the risk of ankle sprains and other lower limb injuries.
Strength Tests:
- Abdominal Strength: A strong core is essential for stability and power transfer during tackles, jumps, and explosive movements.
- Hip Abduction/Adduction: These tests assess muscle imbalances that can contribute to groin injuries and other lower limb problems. Imbalance between these muscles is often considered a contributor to hip and groin related pain (osteitis pubis or hip injury).
- Calf Raises: Evaluating calf strength is crucial for optimal running performance and injury prevention. Can you do 30 full reps on one leg?
- Nordic Hamstring Curl: This test directly assesses hamstring strength, a critical factor in hamstring strains, one of the most debilitating injuries in field based team sports.
Functional Tests:
- Single Leg Squat: This test assesses balance, coordination, and strength, crucial for maintaining stability during dynamic movements on the field.
- LESS Score: LESS = Landing Error Scoring System. Analyzing landing mechanics helps identify potential risk factors for ankle sprains and other injuries associated with jumping and landing.
- Single Leg Jump/Triple Cross-over Hop: These tests evaluate power, agility, and coordination, providing insights into overall athletic performance. We can even benchmark you against a large database of similar age and gender across similar sports. How do you compare?
- SEBT: The Star Excursion Balance Test assesses dynamic balance and coordination, crucial for maintaining stability and preventing injuries during unpredictable situations on the field. Reduced control and range here has been linked with increased risk of ankle injuries in some sports.
By conducting these comprehensive screenings, we can:
- Identify and address underlying weaknesses: Pinpoint areas of concern, such as muscle imbalances or limited range of motion, allowing for targeted interventions to improve performance and reduce injury risk.
- Optimize movement patterns: Identify and correct any biomechanical inefficiencies that could increase the risk of injury.
- Personalize training programs: Develop individualized training plans that address specific needs and goals, maximizing performance and minimizing injury risk.
Pre-season screening is not just about identifying potential problems; it’s about proactively addressing them to ensure athletes are physically prepared for the demands of the season. By investing in this crucial aspect of injury prevention, athletes can enhance their performance, reduce their risk of injury, and ultimately achieve their full potential on the field.
