An investigation to identify the differences in the kinetics and kinematics that exist between the technical adaptations of forwards and backs during anticipated and unanticipated cutting manoeuvres

Abstract

Participation in Rugby Union was classed by Collet et al. (2003) as a high-risk activity for those with previous history of knee injuries. This perception of a high level of risk is due to the high frequency of deceleration and cutting manoeuvres that are utilised by participants in the sport. The aim of this investigation was to identify the differences in the kinetics and kinematics, if any that exist, between the technical adaptations of forwards and backs during anticipated and unanticipated cutting manoeuvres more specifically during the touchdown phase of the stance. Nine healthy males participated in this study (age 20.56 years ± 1.01, height 183.96cm ± 6.48cm, mass 89.70kg ± 9.07kg) and were grouped into forwards (n=4) and backs (n=5). Participants performed twelve trials each at around 80% of their maximum sprint pace. Force data was collected using a Kistler force platform (200Hz) while kinematics were collected using a CODAmotion V6.78.2 system. An eight-marker set-up was used with markers placed unilaterally on the metatarsophalangeal (MTP), heel, lateral malleolus, shank, lateral epicondyle of the femur, thigh, the greater trochanter and the shoulder. No significant differences were found between the rotation angles, varus/valgus angles, flexion angles and ground reaction forces of forward’s and back’s technical adaptations. Future research is required to investigate the kinematics experienced by rugby during cutting maneuvers and also whether rugby players as a population are less susceptible to non-contact ACL injuries due to increased muscular volume around the knee joint and experience of landing and cutting movements.