Uncovering the Biomechanical Role of Hip Flexion in Non-Contact ACL Injuries during Athletic Maneuvers: A Case-Control Study Using YouTube Video Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is crucial in
preventing anterior tibial translation, and a complete rupture is
a severe sports injury. This study aimed to test if hip joint angle
contributes to non-contact ACL injuries in male professional
athletes during three maneuvers: changing direction, landing
from a jump, and deceleration.
Methods and Materials: From October to December 2020, an
online case-control study was conducted involving 37 male
professional athletes. Out of 37 videos, 19 showed athletes
who had suffered an ACL injury during one of three maneuvers,
while the remaining 18 videos depicted athletes performing
similar maneuvers without prior ACL injury. Hip joint angle was
analyzed in each video using Kinovea software.
Results: Injured group had a greater hip flexion angle during
the change of direction maneuver compared to the control
group, and less ROM. No significant differences in hip angle
during jump-landing, but injured individuals had less ROM.
No significant difference in hip flexion angle and ROM was
found between the groups during deceleration maneuvers.
Conclusion: An increased hip flexion angle during change of
direction may heighten the risk of non-contact ACL injury in
male professional athletes.