Lower-Extremity Strength and Power in Elite Hockey Players With and Without Patellar Tendinopathy

Overview

This study aims to identify differences in lower-extremity strength and power between elite ice hockey players with and without patellar tendinopathy using unilateral and bilateral comparisons. It applies a structured, cross-sectional methodology that combines clinical screening, performance testing, and ultrasound imaging to characterize patellar tendon structure and lower-limb function in elite hockey players. Players are objectively classified into healthy, unilateral, or bilateral patellar tendinopathy groups based on standardized ultrasound criteria. Strength and power outcomes are assessed under controlled conditions and normalized to body mass to allow fair between-group comparisons. Isokinetic concentric strength is evaluated during a split squat performed on a robotic resistance device, while peak power output is measured using a six-second all-out cycling test on a calibrated ergometer.

This study investigates whether asymptomatic structural changes impair strength and power generation in hockey players using a between-group analysis based on patellar tendon thickness. Due to a compressed training schedule, testing occurs over consecutive days under standardized conditions. On day one, players provide informed consent and complete injury screening and anthropometric assessments. Strength and power testing is conducted on days two and three by one investigator and analyzed relative to body mass, given the association between patellar tendon thickness and BMI. On day four, a blinded investigator assesses bilateral patellar tendon thickness using ultrasound. On day five, both investigators independently analyze the images. Based on tendon thickness cutoffs, players are classified into healthy, unilateral, or bilateral tendinopathy groups, followed by between-group comparisons of strength and power outcomes. Screening protocol: A licensed physiotherapist conducts the screening using a binary checklist (yes/no). Criteria include abnormal knee range of motion, knee pain during functional tasks, limping, positive patellar or ligament tests, joint effusion, or unilateral quadriceps atrophy (limb symmetry index \<90%). Any positive finding results in immediate exclusion. Anthropometrics: Body height and body weight are measured privately using a stadiometer and electronic scale, and body mass index is calculated. Strength testing: Isokinetic leg strength is assessed using a split squat on a robotic resistance device at a concentric speed of 1 m/s. Players perform three maximal repetitions per leg following a standardized warm-up, and peak concentric force is recorded, with the best trial used for analysis. Power testing: Peak power output is measured using a six-second all-out cycling test on a calibrated ergometer. After a standardized warm-up, resistance is fixed, and players sprint maximally following a countdown. Peak power output is recorded. Ultrasound examination: Patellar tendon thickness is assessed bilaterally using ultrasound according to standardized guidelines. Players lie supine with the knee flexed \~30°, and longitudinal and transverse scans are obtained. Two independent examiners analyze images, and a tendon thickness \>5 mm indicates patellar tendinopathy.