Influence of biological maturity on static and dynamic postural control among male youth soccer players

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018

Source: Gait & Posture

Author(s): Cornelius John, Anna Lina Rahlf, Daniel Hamacher, Astrid Zech

Abstract

Background

Peak height velocity has been reported to be associated with the phenomenon of adolescent awkwardness, a temporary disruption in motor skills, and an increase in injuries in some adolescents. To date, it is not entirely clear which motor abilities are deficient during the phase of rapid growth.

Research question

We hypothesized that static as well as dynamic postural control is influenced by biological maturation.

Methods

The study was conducted in a prospective, cross-sectional design. Maturity offset, a somatic indicator for biological maturation was captured for n = 99 male soccer players (13.7 ± 0.5 years). Static and dynamic balance were assessed by the Balance Error Scoring System and the Y-Balance Test, respectively. Influences of biological maturation on balance performances have been analyzed by linear mixed models.

Results

Linear mixed model analyses revealed that biological maturation is significantly associated with the total BESS score (p = 0.022, b = 2.195) as well as the YBT anterior (right leg: p = 0.023, b = -0.022; left leg: p = 0.015, b = -0.024) and posteromedial reach directions (left leg: p = 0.02, b = -0.029). No significant associations were found for the other YBT distances.

Significance

Based on our results, maturity seems to have a considerable influence on postural control. It might be that deficits in balance performance contribute to the phenomenon of adolescent awkwardness and therefore lead to an increased injury risk during the adolescent growth spurt. To possibly prevent injuries in youth soccer, biological maturation should be taken into consideration in youth sport coaching.

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