Accession Number:

ADA569311

Title:

Selected Static Anatomic Measures Predict Overuse Injuries in Female Military Recruits

Descriptive Note:

Journal article

Corporate Author:

NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA

Personal Author(s):

• Rauh, Mitchell J.
• Macera, Caroline A.
• Trone, Daniel W.
• Reis, Jared P.
• Shaffer, Richard A.

Report Date:

2010-05-01

Pagination or Media Count:

10.0

Abstract:

BackgroundPurpose Overuse injuries account for substantial time lost or training activities, especially in young women undergoing U.S. Marine Corps basic training. The purpose of this study was to explore static anatomic measures that may identify recruits with anatomic irregularitiesmalaligment that may place them at increased risk for four common overuse injuries iliotibial band syndrome ITBS, patellofemoral pain syndrome PFPS, shin splints SS, and plantar fasciitis PF during basic training. Methods Data collected included 10 anatomic measures performed on a sample of 748 women prior to basic training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot MCRD, Parris Island, in 1995-1996. Recruits were then followed throughout basic training for occurrence of acute and overuse injuries. Results Of the 748 recruits, 7.5 n56 were diagnosed with PFPS, 7.2 n54 with SS, 3.2 n24 with ITBS, and 2.9 n22 with PF. We found that left-hip internal rotation range of motion ROM 25 deg and 46 deg, a right Q-angle 20 deg, and left-knee hyperextension ROM 6 deg were positively associated with PFPS. In addition, a narrow pelvic widthfemur ratio and left-ankle dorsiflexion ROM 21 deg were associated with SS injury. A right Q-angle 20 deg was inversely associated with SS injury. Conclusions Our findings suggest that multiple anatomic tests can be used to identify women entering MCRD basic training at risk for PFPS and SS. Prophylactic or pretraining activities designed to improve or correct malalignment may help reduce training-related overuse injuries.

Descriptors:

• *FEMALES
• *MILITARY PERSONNEL
• *WOUNDS AND INJURIES
• MEDICAL SUPPLIES
• MILITARY FORCES(UNITED STATES)
• MILITARY TRAINING
• PREVENTIVE MEDICINE
• RECRUITS
• REPRINTS
• SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Subject Categories:

• Personnel Management and Labor Relations
• Weapons Effects (Biological)
• Military Forces and Organizations

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE