Plyometric Training in Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Objective: Plyometric training (PT) uses the stretch-shortening cycle to enhance force production, commonly used in athletic training and increasingly explored in musculoskeletal (MSK) rehabilitation. However, consensus on its efficacy in MSK rehabilitation remains elusive. The aim of this scoping review is to synthesize current evidence and identify research gaps.

Data sources: A systematic search was conducted until July 2023 using the Population-Concept-Context model through EMBASE, Medline (PubMed), Cochrane Central, CINHAL, Scopus, PEDro, and SportDiscus. A 5-step scoping review model was used, including defining the research question, identifying and selecting relevant studies, data synthesis, and reporting. Two authors independently screened titles and full texts. Data extraction categorized studies for analysis. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews guidelines ensured methodological transparency.

Main results: The search yielded 25 relevant studies out of 4069 potentially eligible ones, including 16 primary studies, 5 reviews, and 4 clinical commentaries. Positive outcomes were noted in primary studies addressing lower and upper extremity MSK issues through supervised interventions. Reviews highlighted PT's efficacy in conditions such as shoulder multidirectional instability, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, and ankle sprains. However, 1 study reported no significant benefits from PT in ACL injury rehabilitation.

Conclusions: This review indicates potential benefits of PT in MSK disorder rehabilitation, while highlighting the need for methodologically rigorous primary research.