Work

Impact of elbow stiffness on running economy in trained athletes

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Background Elbow injuries are likely to generate a decreased range of motion (ROM), which might negatively affect athletic performance. To date, the effect of elbow stiffness on endurance running performance has never been studied. We conducted an observational, prospective, cross-over study to examine the impact of elbow stiffness on running economy. Methods Twenty trained athletes performed running economy tests at 12 km·h −1 , with and without a limited elbow ROM (flexion: 90°, extension: 45°), imposed by a dynamic brace mimicking a severe elbow stiffness. Relative intensity and performance indexes were measured during a subsequent maximal incremental exercise test. Results Running economy was measured at 180 ± 10.6 mlO 2 ·km −1 ·kg −1 with a full ROM, and 180.2 ± 12.3 mlO 2 ·km −1 ·kg −1 with the limited ROM showing a non-significant 0.1% difference ( p = 0.871). Discussion Athletes experiencing post-traumatic elbow stiffness can find reassurance in knowing that it does not seem to impact a crucial metric of endurance running performance, namely running economy. Further research could explore elbow movement at different intensities of running, from higher aerobic speeds to sprinting.

Source: Shoulder & Elbow

DOI: 10.1177/17585732241306369

Authors: Cecilia Wilk, Cyril Besson, Laurie Stockton, Frédéric Vauclair, Vincent Gremeaux

Institutions: University of Lausanne, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Hirslanden Clinique Bois-Cerf

Language: English

Topic: Lower Extremity Biomechanics and Pathologies

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,700