The effects of exertion on the postural stability in young soccer players

OBJECTIVE : Analyze the effects of physical exertion during a soccer match on the functional capacity and stability of the lower limbs of young soccer players. METHODS : We analyzed 10 soccer players who underwent functional capacity assessment of the lower limbs by a Hop Test protocol and evaluation of the level of postural stability in the Biodex Stability System (Biodex, Inc., Shirley, NY) before and immediately after a friendly game lasting 45 minutes. RESULTS : After the match, there was a decrease in overall stability index (F(1,23) = 7.29 P = .024) and anterior posterior index (APSI) (F(1,23) = 5.53 P = .043). Fatigue in the dominant limb was responsible for the significant deficit in OSI (F(1,23) = 3.16, P = .047) and APSI (F(1,23) = 3:49, P = .029), while the non-dominant limb did not cause any change in the pre and post-game. CONCLUSION : A football match can cause decreased stability and functional capacity of the lower limbs in young players. Level of Evidence III, Pre-test and Post-test Study (Case-control) .