Comparing concentric isokinetic thigh muscle strength in female Gaelic football prayers with and without previous hamstring injury

Hamstring iniury is one of the most common injuries affecting Gaelic footballers, however conflict exists in the literature regarding the presence of strength deficits after hamstring iniury. The aim of this study was to determine whether significant thigh muscle weakness is present in female Gaelic footballers after previous hamstring iniury. Twenty members of a university senior female Gaelic footbal team participated in the study. Knee flexion and extension strength were assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer (Biodex) at 60, 180 and 300 degrees per second. Seven players reported a history of hamstring strain, with all injuries occurring on Ihe dominant side. The previously injured hamstrings were significantly stronger an multiple isokinetic comparisons, although these differences only reached statistical significance (p<0.05) at 180 degrees per second . Dominant legs were significantly stronger (p<0.05) than non-dominant legs across numerous strength variables and speeds. Interestingly, thigh muscle weakness was not observed in female Gaelic football players wilh a history of hamstring iniury. In contrast, the hamstrings of Ihe previously injured legs were stronger than the uninjured legs. The significant strength differences found between dominant and non-dominant legs could, however, have been a confounding variable. Rehabilitation must consider aspects alher than increasing muscle strength 10 reduce the risk of recurrence.