Using Force Plates to Track Return to Play and In-season Readiness: A Case Study
Maxwell Stevens
Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation
College: The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major: Excercise Science (M.S.)
Faculty Research Mentor: Pragya Sharma Ghimire
Abstract:
Using Force Plates to Track Return to Play and In-Season Readiness: A Case StudyBackground: Force plates have become a new gold standard in strength and conditioning when testing jumping in athletes. Advanced technology allows coaches to track all three phases of the jump and over 50 variables rather than measuring only jump height. VALD force decks are widely used to trace asymmetries in each jump's loading, takeoff, and landing phases, further measuring total force production within each jump. By testing overall force, asymmetries in the three phases of the jump, and jump height in athletes, coaches can assess athlete's recovery, readiness, and return to play protocol. All these variables directly correlate to overall athletic performance and can predict if an athlete is at high risk for injury. Purpose: This case study aims to assess an 8-week training program using force plates to track progression and analyze a player's return to play post-knee surgery. Methods: In this case study, an athlete from a Lacrosse team member will undergo an 8-week training program consisting of two weight training sessions and one speed session. Weight training sessions will include movements for every major muscle group. The speed sessions will focus on running mechanics such as foot placement, change of direction, acceleration, and deceleration. This patient will be tested every week after the weight training session, and three countermovement jumps will be performed on the VALD force decks. Conclusions: The training program will enable the athlete to participate in practice at least 5 times a week with modifications and some limitations during in-season practice. The sports medicine staff expect to pinpoint when this athlete can fully return to gameplay using force plates. Anticipated improvements include reduced asymmetries between the legs during the countermovement jump and increased RSI and overall force production. Significance/Novelty: This case study will allow us to assess an athlete's progression in the season with trackable data. Using the VALD force decks will also see if this athlete is at high risk for re-injury during the lacrosse season.Key Words: Force Plate, Injury, and Countermovement Jump