Effect of Plyometric Training on Prevention of ACL Injuries in Females Volleyball Players

OBJECTIVES: To verify the effects of plyometric training on prevention of ACL injuries with lower limp kinematics,eccentric hip and knee torques,and functional performance. METHODS: 36 females volleyball players were divided into a training group (TG no:18) that carried out the plyometric training for 12 weeks,and a control group (CG no:18)that carried out no physical training.24 plyometric trainin sessions during approximately 12 weeks with 3 sessions ,30 minutes per week on alternate days. Lower limb kinematics (maximum excursion of hip adduction,hip medial rotation,and knee abduction during the single leg squat),eccentric hip (abductor,adductor,medial and lateral rotator) isokinetic peak torques and knee (flexor and extansor) isokinetic peak torques,and fuctional performance(trşpl hpo test and the 6-m timed hop test). RESULTS: After 12 weeks, only the TG significantly reduced the values for the maximum excursion of knee abduction (P=0.01) and hip adduction (P 0.001).Similarly ,only the TG significantly increased the eccentic hip abductor (P 0.001) and adductor (P=0.01) torques.Finally,only the TG significantly increased the values in the tripl hop test (P 0.001) and significantly decreased the values in the 6-m timed hop test (P 0.001) after intervention. CONCLUSION: Plyometric training alters lower limb kinematics and increases eccentric hip torque and functional performance, suggesting the incorporation of these exercises in preventive programs for ACL injuries.