Plyometric Training With or Without Hamstring Strengthening for Preventing ACL Injuries in Female Amateur Athletes

Not Applicable

Completed

• Conditions: ACL Injuries

• Registration Number: NCT07047833
• Lead Sponsor: University of Lahore

Brief Summary

This randomized controlled trial explored the effect of plyometric training with or without hamstring strengthening in preventing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries among female amateur athletes aged 18 to 30. Sixty participants were divided equally into two groups: one received plyometric training combined with hamstring strengthening, and the other received plyometric training only. Both groups trained twice per week over a six-week period. Outcomes measured included knee strength (flexion and extension), dynamic balance (Star Excursion Test), and functional mobility (KOOS).

Detailed Description

This study examined whether combining hamstring strengthening with plyometric training provides greater benefits in preventing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries than plyometric training alone among female amateur athletes. Conducted as a randomized controlled trial, the research involved 60 participants aged 18 to 30, randomly assigned to two equal groups. Group A underwent a six-week intervention involving both plyometric and hamstring strengthening exercises, while Group B participated in plyometric training only. Each group trained twice weekly, and the outcomes were measured at baseline, Week 3, and Week 6 using a handheld dynamometer for knee strength (flexion and extension), the Star Excursion Balance Test (SET) for dynamic balance, and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) for functional mobility.

Study Timeline

• Study Start: 2024-05-21
• Primary Completion: 2025-01-30
• Study Completion: 2025-03-25
• Study First Submitted: 2025-04-04
• Status Verified: 2025-06
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-07-01
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-07-01
• Study First Posted: 2025-07-02
• Last Update Posted: 2025-07-02

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: COMPLETED
• Sex: Female
• Target Recruitment: 60

Inclusion Criteria

• Female amateur athletes between the ages of 18-30 years old.
• Participating in sports that involve jumping, cutting and pivoting movements (e.g. basketball, soccer).
• On average, athletes exercised between six and eight times per week including competition.
• Able to perform basic jumping and landing mechanics safely.

Exclusion Criteria

• Recreational athlete or untrained individual
• Athletes with less than five training sessions per week.
• Athletes who were operated with techniques other than the bone patellar-tendon, bone graft (BPTB), or who were operated by different surgeons and rehabilitated by several physical therapist.
• Athletes with a history of muscle or joint injuries.
• Athletes who had already followed a pre-operative rehabilitation program.

Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: PARALLEL

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Knee Flexion and Extension Strength (Measured Using Handheld Dynamometer)	Baseline, Week 3, and Week 6	Lower limb strength was assessed through a handheld dynamometer measuring knee flexion and extension in kilograms. This tool has high reliability for assessing muscle strength and functional performance in athletic populations. Measurements were taken at baseline, Week 3, and Week 6 to evaluate changes over time due to the training interventions.

Secondary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Dynamic Balance (Assessed Using Star Excursion Balance Test - SEBT)	Baseline, Week 3, and Week 6	The SEBT evaluates dynamic postural control and balance by measuring reach distance in multiple directions while maintaining single-leg stance. It is a validated predictor of lower extremity injury risk and is used to track neuromuscular improvements in response to training. Performance was recorded at three intervals during the study.
Functional Mobility (Assessed Using KOOS - Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score)	Baseline, Week 3, and Week 6	The KOOS is a patient-reported outcome tool consisting of 5 subscales: Pain, Symptoms, ADL, Sport/Rec, and Quality of Life. It assesses functional limitations and knee-related quality of life. Scores range from 0 (severe problems) to 100 (no problems). It was used to monitor improvements in knee function due to training.

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

The University of Lahore Teaching Hospital; 🇵🇰 Lahore, Pakistan