Article Text
Abstract
Introduction The objective of this study is to assess the ratio of knee joint agonist/antagonist muscle strength (Hamstring/Quadriceps) and balance in elite female volleyball players.
Materials and methods Thirteen healthy elite volleyball players playing in the Turkish Premier Female Volleyball League, with mean age 21.7 ± 4.48, mean height 181 ± 5.96 cm and mean weight 65 ± 9.62 kg were included in the study. Active players of the premier league volleyball who exercised 15 hours per week were included in the study. Isokinetic strength measurements in the thigh were carried out using the Biodex Isokinetic Systems Pro device, while balance measurement were carried out using Biodex Balance Systems SD balance device.
Results Peak Torque (PT) and Hamstring/Quadriceps (H/Q) ratio were measured on Hamstring (H) and Quadriceps (Q) muscles with concentric contractions using isokinetic dynamometer with 60os-1velocity and 180os-1. The H/Q value for the dominant knee at 60os-1was found as 53 Nm, and the H/Q value for the non-dominant knee at 60os-1was found as 53.3 Nm, while the H:Q value for the dominant knee at 180os-1was found as 56.6 Nm and the H/Q value for the non-dominant knee at 180os-1was found as 57.4 Nm. (Table 1) As regards the balance loss scores, the total balance loss (TBS) in the dominant leg was found as 1.80, anterior-posterior balance loss (APS) in the dominant leg as 1.20, medial-lateral balance loss (MLS) in the dominant leg as 1.14, while the total balance loss score (TBS) in the non- dominant leg was found as 1.83, anterior-posterior balance loss (APS) in the non-dominant leg as 1.22, and the medial-lateral balance loss (MLS) in the non-dominant leg was found as 1.18. (Table 2)
Discussion The typical H/Q ratio in healthy individuals varies between 0.5 and 0.8, with increased ratios with increasing velocity. The agonist/antagonist values we have obtained in our study are included in this range; however, they were found to be closer to the lower limits. However, since the generally-accepted values have not been determined for volleyball players, the values we have obtained and those to be obtained in future studies can be used as references for volleyball players. Considering the balance loss values in volleyball players, losses in the dominant leg appear to be less.
- Balance
- Isokinetic evaluation
- Volleyball