THE EFFECTS OF EXERTION ON THE POSTURAL STABILITY IN YOUNG SOCCER PLAYERS

Objective: Analyze the effects of physical exertion during a soccer match on the functional capacity and stability of the lower limbs of young soccer players. Methods: We analyzed 10 soccer players who underwent functional capacity assessment of the lower limbs by a Hop Test protocol and evaluation of the level of postural stability in the Biodex Stability System (Biodex, Inc., Shirley, NY) before and immediately after a friendly game lasting 45 minutes. Results: After the match, there was a decrease in overall stability index (F-(1,F-23) = 7.29 P = 024) and anterior posterior index (APSI) (F-(1,F-23) = 5.53 P = 043). Fatigue in the dominant limb was responsible for the significant deficit in OSI (F-(1,F-23) = 3.16, P = 047) and APSI (F-(1,F-23) = 3: 49, P = .029), while the non-dominant limb did not cause any change in the pre and post-game. Conclusion: A football match can cause decreased stability and functional capacity of the lower limbs in young players. Level of Evidence III, Pre-test and Post-test Study (Case-control).