Effects of Neurodynamic Sliding Versus Eccentric Training on Lower Extremity Function, Strength and Proprioception in Athletes with Short Hamstring Syndrome.

To measure passive hamstring flexibility, participants will lie supine on a bed with their pelvis and opposite thigh secured using straps to prevent compensatory movements. A goniometer will be positioned with its axis at the greater trochanter of the femur, the fixed arm aligned with the midaxillary line, and the moving arm along the lateral malleolus. With the knee extended and the ankle in a neutral position to avoid calf muscle stiffness, the thigh is gently flexed until hamstring tightness is felt. The straight leg's elevation angle will be measured three times, and the average will determine hamstring flexibility. Individuals with an angle less than 75° are classified as having short hamstring muscles.

Quadriceps and hamstring strength will be measured using the Biodex Pro 3 isokinetic device. Participants will sit comfortably with their trunk, pelvis, and thigh secured by straps, and the dynamometer axis aligned with the knee joint's center of rotation. After adjustments for proper positioning, the test leg will be attached to the device. Following familiarization and warm-up contractions, participants will perform maximum effort tests. Strength will be evaluated at angular speeds of 60°/s and 120°/s in both concentric and eccentric modes, with knee joint movement controlled between 0° and 90°.

Knee joint proprioception was assessed using the Biodex dynamometer in continuous passive motion mode at a constant speed of 5°/s. Participants sat with knees and hips bent at 90°, aligned with the dynamometer's axis, while wearing a blindfold and pneumatic boot to block visual and tactile cues. The test involved 90° of knee movement, from full extension (0°) to full flexion (90°). After practice trials, participants aimed to identify a target position (60°) during knee flexion and hit an abort button when they believed they reached it. The deviation from the target position was recorded based on three repetitions.

YBT test performance was assessed with a Y Balance Test Kit. Before assessment, participants were acquainted with the Y-Balance Test (YBT) by practicing on their injured limb. The YBT was performed on a platform. Throughout the task, the standing leg remained on the platform, while the other leg executed error-free maximum reach in three directions: anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral. Maximum distances in each direction, relative to the stance leg, were measured. During the test, participants kept their hands on their waists, and each direction was repeated three times with a 10-second rest between trials.