Effect of warming up on knee proprioception before sporting activity.

BACKGROUND It is now generally accepted that the ligamentous structures of the knee not only act as mechanical restraints but also have a neurophysiological role in joint function and protection. A report that knee joint laxity increases with exercise raised the question as to whether there is any compensatory change in joint position appreciation. OBJECTIVE To test whether there is a compensatory mechanism for increased ligamentous laxity during normal levels of activity. METHODS Joint position appreciation was measured, using a previously reported technique, in the knees of sportsmen at rest and after warm up. RESULTS Joint position appreciation was found to be significantly more sensitive after warm up (p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that joint position appreciation within the knee accommodates physiological changes within the ligaments and muscles after exercise.