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EFFECTS OF BANDED POSTERIOR FEMORAL GLIDE AND LATERAL DISTRACTION ON SQUAT KINEMATICS AND PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Joint mobility through a full range of motion (ROM) is essential for everyday function and sport. Full joint ROM is especially important in the squat, a fundamental strength and performance exercise widely used in recreational and athletic training. Despite how fundamental the squat is, research on proper technique remains controversial. PURPOSE: This study aimed to understand the effects of banded mobilization techniques on squat kinematics. METHODS: Following a standardized warm-up, participants performed baseline squats with standardized verbal cues but no coaching. These were recorded from the dominant side-sagittal plane to measure ankle, knee, hip flexion and squat depth. Each set of squats was recorded at hip level, and the third squat was used at its deepest point to measure knee flexion, ankle dorsiflexion, and squat depth. Participants then completed a mobilization routine incorporating banded posterior femoral glide and banded lateral distraction with overpressure. Post-intervention squats were assessed using identical verbal cues, with any form modifications occurring naturally. Pre- and post-mobilization pain and comfort ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were collected to evaluate the subjective impact of these changes. RESULTS: Twenty-four recreationally to elite-trained participants (aged 20.17 ± 1.31, n= 7 females) participated in the study. Results demonstrated significant decreases in ankle flexion (79.69 ± 6.62 degrees, 82.78 ± 6.58 degrees, pre- and post-test respectively, p<0.001) coupled with significant increases in knee flexion (72.00 ± 15.65 degrees, 65.38 ± 15.32 degrees, pre- and post-test respectively, p<0.001) and squat depth (-6.86 ± 15.53 degrees, 1.35 ± 16.29 degrees, pre- and post-test respectively, p<0.001). Additionally, 78.3% of participants reported decreased pain and increased comfort, with significant improvements in RPE scores (0.43 ± 1.47, 1.63 ± 1.35, pre- and post-test respectively, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Implementation of banded posterior femoral glide and banded lateral distraction with overpressure demonstrated significant reductions in ankle flexion while facilitating increased knee flexion, ultimately contributing to enhanced squat depth with decreased anterior tibial protrusion. These banded hip mobilization techniques present valid strategies for optimizing squat kinematics and enhancing participant comfort and performance.

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