Author(s)

Henriette Hammill

Physical Activity, Sport and Recreation (PhASRec), North-West University (NWU), Potchefstroom, South Africa.

Background: Netball is a popular sport. Due to high impact and quick movement, there is an enormous load on the lower extremities which increases the risk for injury. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the quadricep and hamstring strength and the prevalence of lower extremity injuries in netball players. Setting: Twenty-five female netball players (age: 20.8 ± 1.4 years) voluntarily participated. Methods: The Cybex Isokinetic dynamometer was used to determine concentric knee torques. Quadriceps:hamstring strength ratio was determined. Occurrence of lower extremity injuries was documented bi-weekly. Results: Medium effect sizes were noted for flexion torque:work for the left leg and for the quadriceps:hamstring ratio (≥60%) for the right leg. All the other measured variables have a small effect size. 18.75% of lower extremity injuries and ConQ:ConH of <60% was present. No association between lower extremity injuries and ConQ:ConH. Injuries may not be accurately predicted by this ratio. Conclusion: Injuries to the ankle and knee are especially common among netball players. Hamstring and quadriceps muscle asymmetry (>10%) were found to be a potential indicator of lower extremity injury. Contribution: This study highlights awareness on lower extremity injuries and the strength ratio between the quadriceps and hamstrings. This can aid coaches and netball players to lower the risk for injuries and thus improve individual- and team performance.

Netball, Hamstrings, Quadriceps, Strength Ratio, Lower Extremity Injuries

Hammill, H. (2024) Relationships between Quadriceps:Hamstring Strength Ratio and Lower Extremity Injuries in Netball Players. Open Journal of Applied Sciences, 14, 1022-1033. doi: 10.4236/ojapps.2024.144068.