LOWER LIMB ASYMMETRY IN INDIVIDUALS WITH ACHONDROPLASIA DURING LUNGES: A BIOMECHANICAL ANALYSIS
Keywords:
impact force, contact time, force impulse, neuromuscular adaptations, dynamic movement, asymmetry indices, training interventions.Abstract
Background: Lower limb asymmetry affects movement efficiency, stability, and injury risk, particularly in
individuals with achondroplasia. Despite its relevance, research on functional asymmetry during dynamic
movements in this population remains limited. Objective: This study aimed to analyze asymmetry in impact
force, contact time, and force impulse during lunges in individuals with achondroplasia. Methods: 15 people
(12 men and 3 women) participated in the National Paralympic Championship at Tamil Nadu Physical
Education and Sports University in Chennai, where data was gathered. A Kistler force plate (Model 9287CA)
was used for lunges, and asymmetry indices were calculated. Pearson correlation analysis and a paired t-test
were used. Findings: Contact time (p = 0.004) and force impulse (p = 0.009) showed substantial asymmetry,
whereas impact force (p=0.544) showed no significant asymmetry. Contact time and force impulse asymmetry
were shown to be strongly correlated (r = 0.835, p < 0.001). Denouement: Results underscore compensatory
neuromuscular adaptations in individuals with achondroplasia and suggest the need for targeted training
interventions. Future research should explore training adaptations aimed at reducing asymmetry.
