Effects of task-specific augmented feedback on deficit modification during performance of the tuck-jump exercise

Context: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are prevalent in female athletes. Specific factors have possible links to increasing a female athlete's chances of suffering an ACL injury. However, it is unclear if augmented feedback may be able to decrease possible risk factors. Objective: To compare the effects of task-specific feedback on a repeated tuck-jump maneuver. Design: Double-blind randomized controlled trial. Setting: Sports-medicine biodynamics center. Patients: 37 female subjects (14.7 ± 1.5 y, 160.9 ± 6.8 cm, 54.5 ± 7.2 kg). Intervention: All athletes received standard off-season training consisting of strength training, plyometrics, and conditioning. They were also videotaped during each session while running on a treadmill at a standardized speed (8 miles/h) and while performing a repeated tuck-jump maneuver for 10 s. The augmented feedback group (AF) received feedback on deficiencies present in a 10-s tuck jump, while the control group (CTRL) received feedback on 10-s treadmill running. Main Outcome Measures: Outcome measurements of tuck-jump deficits were scored by a blinded rater to determine the effects of group (CTRL vs AF) and time (pre- vs posttesting) on changes in measured deficits. Results: A significant interaction of time by group was noted with the task-specific feedback training (P =.03). The AF group reduced deficits measured during the tuck-jump assessment by 23.6%, while the CTRL training reduced deficits by 10.6%. Conclusions: The results of the current study indicate that task-specific feedback is effective for reducing biomechanical risk factors associated with ACL injury. The data also indicate that specific components of the tuck-jump assessment are potentially more modifiable than others.