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Meta-Analysis
. 2023 Jul-Aug;27(4):100538.
doi: 10.1016/j.bjpt.2023.100538. Epub 2023 Aug 23.

Are alterations in running biomechanics associated with running injuries? A systematic review with meta-analysis

Alexandre Dias Lopes  1 , Angelie Mascarinas  2 , Luiz Hespanhol  3
Affiliations
Meta-Analysis

Are alterations in running biomechanics associated with running injuries? A systematic review with meta-analysis

Alexandre Dias Lopes et al. Braz J Phys Ther. 2023 Jul-Aug.

Abstract

Background: No systematic review has investigated the main biomechanical variables as predictors of running-related injuries.

Objective: To investigate the main biomechanical variables associated with running-related injuries.

Methods: Medline via PubMed, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and CINAHL were searched from inception until 1 November 2021. Each study included must have investigated the association of at least one biomechanical variable (kinetics, kinematics, electromyography, or pressure distribution) with running injuries. The meta-analysis was conducted, and a modified version of the Downs and Black Quality Index was used for methodological quality evaluation.

Results: Across the 82 studies included, 5465 runners were investigated. The meta-analysis was conducted with 11 biomechanical variables from 51 articles (n=2395). The peak hip adduction angle was the sole biomechanical variable associated with running injury and was found to be higher in injured runners (0.57, 95% CI 0.21, 0.94) compared to uninjured runners. However, this result was highly influenced by two studies (out of five studies) conducted by the same group of authors.

Conclusion: Clinicians, coaches, and runners should be aware that minimal evidence supports that alterations of running biomechanics are associated with running-related injuries. Heterogeneity in evaluation conditions and inconsistency in the naming and definitions of biomechanical variables make definitive conclusions challenging.

Systematic review registration number: PROSPERO, CRD42017068839.

Keywords: Biomechanics; Injury; Physical therapy; Rehabilitation; Running.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interest No conflicts of interest. This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Figures

Fig 1
Fig. 1
Flowchart of the study selection process.
Fig 2
Fig. 2
The biomechanical variables used in the meta-analysis.
Fig 3
Fig. 3
Summary of the results obtained in the meta-analysis. I2: 25%, low heterogeneity; 50%, medium; and 75% or greater, high.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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