The effect of neuromuscular training on reducing the risk of sports injuries: A systematic review

Abstract

Background

Neuromuscular training is important for improving motor control, balance, and joint stability, making it effective in preventing sports injuries. However, limitations in the number of studies, variations in intervention design, and lack of long-term analysis are barriers to drawing broader conclusions.

Objectives

This systematic review aims to analyze the effect of neuromuscular training on reducing the risk of sports injuries.

Methods

This study followed the PRISMA guidelines by reviewing articles from Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. The article search and selection strategy was conducted using several major scientific databases, namely Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science (WOS), and PubMed. The keywords used in the search included "neuromuscular training," "injury prevention," "sports performance," "athletes," and "rehabilitation". Eight studies were selected based on the criteria of relevance to neuromuscular training and injury prevention.

Results

Neuromuscular training has been shown to reduce the risk of injury, improve neuromuscular function and improve balance. Effectiveness is influenced by the duration, intensity and consistency of the exercises. This systematic review confirms that neuromuscular training (NMT) is an effective approach in reducing the risk of sports injuries, especially to the lower extremities, through improved neuromuscular control, joint stability, dynamic balance and more efficient biomechanics of motion.

Conclusion

Neuromuscular training is an effective strategy for sports injury prevention and is recommended as part of an athlete's training program. Further studies with more uniform methodology and longer follow-up periods are needed.