Investigation of a Three-Week Neuromuscular Training Intervention on Biomechanical Parameters of the Lower Quarter in Female Collegiate Pivoting Athletes

Background/Purpose: Mounting evidence has illuminated the efficacy of neuromuscular training (NMT) interventions to improve biomechanics related to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during dynamic pivoting movements. This investigation examined the strength, dynamic balance, and biomechanics of the lower quarter during select functional movement assessments in female collegiate athletes before and after a three-week NMT intervention with additional investigation of the influence of the training on a power-based motion correlated to sport performance. Study Design: Non-randomized Controlled Follow-up Study. Methods: 17 Division I NCAA female soccer players aged 18 - 21 participated, averaging a height of 167.79 cm and weight of 65.87 kg. Hip strength was measured with hand dynamometry. Single-leg stance modified balance (SLSM) was measured with eyes closed and in static heel rise conditions. A Noraxon MyoMotion system assessed peak hip and knee excursion during select movement assessments. Vertical jump height was recorded. Six one-hour NMT sessions for lower quarter training were performed over three weeks. Tests were then repeated. Results: Significant improvements on post-intervention were found in hip abduction strength bilaterally (p = 0.000) and hip extension strength in both right (p = 0.002) and left (p = 0.000) lower extremities. Analysis of data also revealed significant improvements in SLSM with eyes-closed for the right lower extremity (p = 0.002) and left (p = 0.000), as well as SLSM with heel rise bilaterally (p = 0.000). Vertical jump height improved significantly (p = 0.000). Hip abduction ROM during single-leg squat (p = 0.001) and knee flexion during single-leg jump tests (p = 0.001) also increased significantly in post-intervention. Conclusions: Following the NMT intervention, proximal hip strength, balance, and power with vertical jump significantly improved, indicating positive neuromuscular adaptations in the lower quarter. The MyoMotion system identified improved kinematics during single-leg squat and single-leg jump as demonstrated by increased knee flexion and hip abduction ROM, which is associated with decreased risk of ACL injury. These findings support the hypothesis that three weeks of NMT is sufficient to positively influence the lower quarter biomechanical profiles of female collegiate athletes and can facilitate performance enhancements in this population.