GENERALIZED JOINT HYPERMOBILITY ALTERS FRONTAL PLANE KNEE JOINT LOADING IN FEMALE COLLEGIATE DIVISION 1 LACROSSE ATHLETES

Abstract

Generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) has been defined as a form of joint laxity that affects an individual systemically, with 5-43% of individuals in the population affected. These individuals experience injuries at a higher frequency and severity than the normal population. The purpose of this investigation was to determine if female collegiate division I lacrosse players with GJH demonstrated different knee mechanics than matched controls. Kinematic and kinetic data were collected as participants performed a single leg land and cut task. The GJH group demonstrated greater peak internal knee adductor moments during landing and a trend toward greater knee extensor moments, which has been reported as a deleterious pattern of loading with increased risk for non-contact anterior cruciate ligament injuries.