Is there a relationship between core stability, balance and strength in amputee soccer players? A pilot study

Background: The body is a kinetic chain and all the systems and muscle groups play important roles in this chain. Core stability, strength and balance are important components of performance within many sports, and in particular soccer. However, the relationship between these components is not fully understood. Objectives: To investigate the relationship between core stability, balance and strength in amputee soccer players. Study Design: Clinical pilot trial. Methods: Eleven amputee soccer players (mean age = 24.63 ± 6.48 years) participated in our study. A Kinesthetic Ability Trainer device was used to assess balance. Trunk strength was evaluated by isokinetic dynamometer. Gillet test was used to evaluate the sacroiliac joint movement. Modified plank test was used to determined dynamic core stability. Disability was evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index. Results: The results showed that there was a correlation between flexor isokinetic trunk muscle strength at the velocity of 60°/sec and modified plank test ( r = 0.630, p = 0.038). There was a negative correlation between flexor isokinetic trunk muscle strength at the velocity of 180°/sec and Oswestry Disability Index score ( r = −0.649, p = 0.031). Conclusions: Amputee soccer is a sport which is generally performed with one limb balance with crutches. It is therefore perceived that a relationship between balance and sacroiliac mobility, and should be considered for evaluation process and performance analysis in amputee soccer. However, in future studies, we recommend that such evaluations on amputee soccer players should be carried out with increased numbers. Clinical relevance Many aspects should be considered in the evaluation of amputee soccer players. Core stability, balance and strength should not be ignored when designing a training program for an amputee soccer team.