Abstract

Although dynamic balance is one of the most important components of stability, it is not considered properly during athletic evaluations.

Aim. To investigate the prevalence of dynamic instability among a group of football players in the UAE. In addition, to investigate the possible association between dynamic instability and player position, weight, and body mass index (BMI). Materials and Methods. 142 Emirati football players from different emirates, between the ages of 16-24 years free from any upper or lower limb injuries at least 3 months prior to the study. The participants were assessed for dynamic balance using the overall stability index during single leg stance measured by the Biodex balance system Results. revealed a high prevalence of dynamic instability among football players in the UAE as 73.2% of the participants showed to be unstable. In addition, there was a strong negative correlation observed between field position and single leg stability index (P = 0.002), however, there was no correlation found between dynamic instability and weight (P = 0.106) or BMI (P = 0.212). Conclusions. Study results suggest the prevalence of dynamic instability among UAE football players with a strong negative correlation between dynamic instability and player position with no significant correlation with weight or BMI.

Key words:

Balance, instability, Biodex