Effects of Lower Extremity Asymmetry and Imbalance on Hamstring Injury in Taekwondo Athletes by Growth Period: 1 year Follow-up Study

This study aimed to determine the asymmetry and imbalance between the lower limbs that cause hamstring injuries targeting middle school, high school, and university taekwondo athletes. A total of 104 taekwondo athletes from middle school (n=33), high school (n=35), and university (n=36) were included as study participants. The results of body composition, lower extremity muscle function (maximum muscle strength, average power, and total work), and injury incidence during one year were revealed. Body composition and lower extremity muscle function of taekwondo athletes by age group had a significant difference (p<.001). University taekwondo athletes showed more developed body composition and lower extremity muscle function than that of middle and high school taekwondo athletes. Among taekwondo athletes, the 1-year injury rate was high at 80.2%, and the risk of injury was high in the ankle, waist, knee, and hamstring. Additionally, the injury incidence during training was high at 76.1%. However, asymmetry and imbalance between the lower limbs did not affect hamstring injuries. Therefore, additional studies on other causes are needed.