The Usefulness of Eccentric Hamstring Strength as a Hamstring Injury Predictor: A Critically Appraised Topic

Authors

  • Kira Wicker Rogers State University
  • Jared Spencer Oral Roberts University
  • Jennifer Volberding Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences

Abstract

Clinical Scenario: Hamstring injuries are prevalent in sports and there have been many identified risk factors for hamstring injuries. Eccentric hamstring strength as a hamstring injury risk factor has been investigated. Clinical Question: Is eccentric hamstring strength an effective predictor of hamstring injuries in athletes?  Summary of Key Findings: A search was performed on current literature on using eccentric hamstring strength as a predictor for hamstring injury. Three articles met the search criteria and were included in this critically appraised topic. Two studies found no correlation between eccentric hamstring strength and the prevalence of hamstring injuries. One study demonstrated that subjects who could not perform a nordic hamstring exercise beyond 30 degrees were at higher risk for injury. Clinical Bottom Line: All the risk factors, not just eccentric hamstring strength, should be combined to identify those that are at risk of hamstring injury.  Strength of Recommendation: B based on the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT) scale.

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Published

2024-05-06

Issue

Section

Athletic Training