The Effectiveness of Plyometric Training and Aquatic Training on Patellar Tendinopathy among University Level Volleyball Players
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Abstract
Background: Patellar tendinopathy is a prevalent overuse injury among volleyball players due to the repetitive jumping, landing, and sudden directional changes. Plyometric training enhances tendon strength and neuromuscular coordination but involves high-impact movements that may worsen symptoms. Aquatic training provides a low-impact alternative, using water's buoyancy to reduce stress while improving strength and flexibility. This study aiming to evaluate their effectiveness in reducing pain and improving function in volleyball players with patellar tendinopathy.
Method: The study recruited volleyball players aged 18-24years with diagnosed patellar tendinopathy. A total of 30 university level volley ball players who were randomly assigned into two groups: Group A Plyometric training (n=15) and Group B Aquatic training (n =15). All the players underwent pre- test measurement with Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) The Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment (VISA) Patella (P) score and the post-test were measured at the end of sixth week.
Results: Comparing pre-test and post-test values of NPRS and VISA-P between groups revealed significant differences. Group B showed better outcomes, with a mean NPRS value of 1.73 ± 0.703 compared to Group A's 3.13 ± 0.743 (p ≤ 0.05, effect size d = 1.93). Similarly, Group B's mean VISA-P score (65.80 ± 5.37) was higher than Group A's (58.73 ± 5.29) (p ≤ 0.05, effect size d = 1.32). These results indicate that aquatic training treatment is more effective than plyometric training.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates that aquatic training is more effective than plyometric training in managing patellar tendinopathy in university volleyball players, showing significant improvements in symptoms.
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| Issue | Articles in Press | |
| Section | Research Article(s) | |
| Keywords | ||
| Aquatic therapy, patellar ligament, plyometric exercise, tendinopathy, volleyball. | ||
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