Bryce Branagan-Franco

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), which is also known as Runner’s Knee or anterior knee pain, is one of the most common overuse injuries in the lower extremity. PFPS is commonly found in individuals who are involved in high impact athletic activities, and is especially common in female athletes.Though it is known for being one of the most common knee injuries, no one has been able to specify its main cause. PFPS is normally treated by rest, ice, medication, taping, physical therapy and in severe cases surgery. Though there are many different ways to treat PFPS, treatment is not always guaranteed to work and can potentially end an individuals career in their particular sport or activity. This presentation will examine multiple studies, in order to shine light on possible causes of PFPS and will briefly discuss treatment methods.

EXSC 425 Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

PFB 103

Noon – 12:30 PM

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Macie Gale

Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Methods of Concussed Football Players

Of all sports played in the US, American football is the sport associated with the greatest number of traumatic brain injuries, and also has the largest number of participants. However, due to players’ reluctance to admit concussion, these statistics may even be underestimated. In order to fully understand this epidemic one needs to consider the biomechanics involved in the injury. This presentation aims to explain the biomechanics of concussion, shine light on the incidences of reoccurring injuries, and will conclude with modern rehabilitation techniques.

EXSC 425 Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

PFB 103

11:30 AM – Noon

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Alleya Harris

The Effect of Lower Limb Biomechanics on Lower Back Pain

Link theory states that structures further from the ground (such as the hips and back) are affected by the lower limb’s structure and ability to handle force efficiently. It is this theory that fuels the model for low back pain (LBP) which implicates the feet in causing biomechanical disruptions that lead the back to hurt. However, the research published about this theory is vastly divergent. For the sake of this discussion, three different views are singled out. The first is in support of the model that the feet cause LBP based on evidence from trials performed in practical treatment settings. The second also affirms the model although more cautiously. In this case the evidence comes from studies done in laboratory settings. The third negates the model based on studies performed in laboratory settings that provide evidence that clearly disproves any correlation. This presentation aims to give an encompassing view of the topic by including representative research supporting each of the different viewpoints and also to reveal that, in the end, each individual’s case is different and needs to be thoroughly evaluated.

EXC 425 Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

PFB 103

10:00 – 10:30 AM

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Garrett Kraal

The Biomechanics of the Running Gait and Hamstring Injuries

Different types of hamstring injuries can be seen in many different sports and activities, sports such as track and field, soccer, football and rugby are the leaders amongst them. The prevalence and occurrence of hamstring muscle injuries can be very frustrating due to their prolonged effects, slow rehabilitation and high re-occurrence rates. There is much controversy surrounding the question why hamstring injuries display these attributes. Gait analysis can help us understand the hamstring muscle complex a little better. Gait analysis methods have enabled us to prevent muscle injuries and improve post-injury rehabilitation methods. The purpose of this talk is to investigate the anatomical/biomechanical characteristics of the hamstring muscle complex (HMC) using gait analysis. The presentation will explain where and when in the gait cycle hamstring injuries are likely to occur, the types of contractions taking place, quadriceps/hamstring torque ratios in reference to the HMC, as well as running economy.

EXSC 425 Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

PFB 103

10:30 – 11:00 AM

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Marsha Poischbeg

Subacromial Bursitis in Overhead Athletes

Shoulder injuries are extremely common in overhead athletes. One of the most common injuries, especially in volleyball players, is subacromial bursitis or subacromial impingement syndrome. This injury is accompanied by pain and a limited range of motion. However, if subacromial bursitis is not treated in the early stages, chronic pain and permanent structural damage to the shoulder can develop. This review provides insight into the mechanisms of this injury as well as treatment methods. These methods include steroid injections, taping methods and exercises that are be beneficial in returning the athlete to play at their full potential. The final piece of this review looks at preventative measures which can be taken to avoid such injury.

EXC 425 Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

PFB 103

11:00 – 11:30 AM

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