The Effectiveness of Plyometric Training and Aquatic Training on Patellar Tendinopathy among University-Level Volleyball Players

Abstract

Introduction: Patellar tendinopathy (PT) is a prevalent overuse injury among volleyball players, primarily due to repetitive jumping, landing, and sudden directional changes required in the sport. Plyometric training enhances tendon strength and neuromuscular coordination; however, it involves high-impact movements that may exacerbate symptoms. Aquatic training offers a low-impact alternative, using water’s buoyancy to reduce stress while enhancing strength and flexibility. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions in reducing pain and improving the function of volleyball players with PT.
Materials and Methods: Volleyball players aged 18–24 years who had been diagnosed with PT were recruited. Thirty university-level volleyball players were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A (plyometric training; n=15) and group B (aquatic training; n=15). All players underwent pre-test measurements using the numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) and the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Patellar (VISA-P) score. Post-test measurements were taken at the end of the sixth week.
Results: Comparing pre-test and post-test values of the NPRS and VISA-P between the 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 was more effective than plyometric training.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates that aquatic training is more effective than plyometric training in managing PT in university-level volleyball players, showing significant improvements in symptoms.