Exploring hip and knee biomechanical differences between horizontal and vertical single leg jumps

Abstract

Functional tests are used to identify various biomechanical deficits. In some circumstances, more than one test can generate data that are complementary to each other. Two types of single leg jumps were studied: maximum horizontal distance and maximum vertical height. The measurements done in three active women were made using a motion capture system for kinematic analysis, and force platforms to measure the ground reaction forces. The results showed differences in the joint torque profiles and impulse, between the two jumps, possibly revealing different alterations in a clinical condition. Such complementary tests can contribute to a more precise identification of biomechanical deficits and their possible causes.