Can a Modified Y-Balance Test Predict Running Overuse Injuries over the Course of a Division I Collegiate Cross-Country Season?
Hanz Tao, Creighton Thompson, Steven Weber
PMID 34909250WHAT IT FOUND
Some modified Y-balance scores, not total scores, were associated with running overuse injuries in 29 collegiate cross-country runners.
Anterior asymmetry over 2.5 cm or 5.4%, normalized nondominant posterior reach below 0.935, and male posteromedial asymmetry over 5.2 cm or 5.1% were associated with higher risk.
Key findings
01Nine of 29 collegiate cross-country runners sustained a running overuse injury during one season.
02In all runners, anterior reach asymmetry greater than 2.5 cm raw or 5.4% normalized was associated with higher injury risk, and normalized nondominant posterior reach below 0.935 was also associated with higher injury risk.
03Among male runners, posteromedial reach asymmetry greater than 5.2 cm raw or 5.1% normalized was associated with higher injury risk, while composite scores did not predict injury.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTs
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What it does not show
The study analyzed 29 runners and only 9 injuries, so the results are fragile. All participants were from one Division I cross-country team, and they were probably fitter than average runners. Runners had high training loads and rapid progressions, which may differ from recreational runners. Preseason fatigue may have affected scores because runners did other tests for about 30 minutes before the modified Y-balance test. Only two practice trials were given, though six are recommended to stabilize performance. Injury reporting was subjective and could have been influenced by factors not measured. The posteromedial asymmetry finding applied only to male runners.
Declared interests
The authors reported no financial disclosures.