Determination of risk factors for lower extremity injury by video analysis during springboard diving

Competitive diving has both a high speed impact and chronic repetitive character. Jumping from the springboard with poor posture or the sheer volume of dives can increase risk of chronic overuse injuries. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between dynamic lower extremity malalignments and elite divers' approach the 1 m springboard.

Passive or reflective markers were attached to posterior surface of the subjects' bodies. Twelve elite divers performed "Forward Diving Straight" with one of the Traditional (TRD) or Hurdle pre-flight (HPF) approach on the 1m springboard. Their dynamic malalignments of ankle, knee and hip were evaluated during diving performance. The relationship between approach pattern and dynamic malalignment of ankle, knee, and hip in the frontal plane at each step was determined using “Generalized Estimating Equation” (GEE) with the “Identity Function” and the “Normal Distribution”.

The results of GEE modeling showed that the mean dynamic joints malalignments were significantly higher on HPF than TRD group.

The postural alignment of lower extremity is affected by the approach pattern. The malalignment of the hip, knee, and especially ankle have substantial interest as potential risk factors for lower extremity injuries. Trainers and coaches are advised to planning for “dynamic postural stability” and “corrective exercises” after recognizing critical points in divers’ performance.