Footedness-Related Differences in Dynamic Joint Stiffness and Leg Stiffness Measurements

Abstract

Aims: Single-leg triple jump for distance (SLTJD) is a common test used to assess footedness. Inter-limb differences in leg stiffness (KLEG), ankle dynamic joint stiffness (ADJS), and knee dynamic joint stiffness (KDJS) are expected to be present. The objective of the present study is to verify this. Study Design: Comparative study. Place and Duration of Study: MovLab/CICANT/Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, between November 2013 and June 2014 Methodology: A group of 31 participants (20 female and 11 male) presenting different footedness (right and left) was assessed. Six SLTJDs (three each side) were recorded using a 3D motion capture system and a force platform. KLEG was calculated for each of the trials recorded by each participant, and synchronised ankle sagittal moment of force and angular position were used to calculate ADJS and KDJS for the support phase of the last jump of the SLTJD, dividing it into two sub-phases: Controlled dorsiflexion and powered plantar flexion. A paired samples t-test was calculated to assess the influence of footedness on biomechanical variables. Results: No significant differences were found between the dominant and non-dominant limb in the studied parameters. Conclusion: Footedness does not seem to influence KLEG, ADJS, or KDJS in the SLTJD.