Physical function factors affecting the modified star excursion balance test results of female collegiate softball athletes

Abstract

[Purpose] To investigate physical function factors affecting the modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT) results of female collegiate softball athletes. [Participants and Methods] The subjects comprised 20 members of a female collegiate softball club. mSEBT lower limb reach distance in three directions (anterior, postmedial, postlateral), upper and lower limbs’ range of motion, flexibility of trunk, and muscle strength (trunk and lower limbs) were measured and their relationships were analyzed. [Results] mSEBT lower limb reach distance in the anterior direction significantly correlated with ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and hip abductor muscle strength on the pivot foot. mSEBT lower limb reach distance in the postmedial and postlateral directions significantly correlated with trunk and hip abductor muscle strength on the pivot foot. [Conclusion] Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and hip abductor muscle strength on the pivot foot, and trunk muscle strength were identified as physical function factors affecting the mSEBT results of female collegiate softball athletes.