BackgroundDeficits in dynamic neuromuscular control have been associated with post-injury sequelae and increased injury risk. The Y-Balance Test Lower Quarter (YBT-LQ) has emerged as a tool to identify these deficits. PurposeTo review the reliability of the YBT-LQ, determine if performance on the YBT-LQ varies among populations (i.e., sex, sport/activity, and competition level), and to determine the injury risk identification validity of the YBT-LQ based on asymmetry, individual reach direction performance, or composite score. Study Design Systematic Review MethodsA comprehensive search was performed of 10 online databases from inception to October 30, 2019. Only studies that tested dynamic single leg balance using the YBT-LQ were included. Studies were excluded if the Y-Balance Test kit was not utilized during testing or if there was a major deviation from the Y-Balance test procedure. For methodological quality assessment, the modified Downs and Black scale and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale were used.

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Background Limited ankle dorsiflexion (DF) is associated with ankle sprains and other lower extremity injuries. Current ankle measurements can be laborious to perform in an athletic environment. Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability and discriminant validity of a novel closed-chain ankle DF ROM test, the standing ankle dorsiflexion screen (SADS). Study Design Reliability and validity study Methods Thirty-seven healthy subjects participated in the study. Two raters measured closed-chain ankle DF range of motion (ROM) using a modified lunge position with an electronic inclinometer. Four raters measured ankle DF using the SADS. Reliability was calculated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and kappa coefficients for the raters using an electronic inclinometer and the SADS scale, respectively. An independent t-test compared the SADS categories of “behind” and “beyond” to the modified lunge test ROM ( p <0.05). Results Excellent ICC values (0.95 [95% CI (0.92,0.97)]) and high kappa values were observed (0.61-0.81), with high percent agreement (86-94%). There was a significant difference in ankle DF ROM between the nominally scored “behind” and “beyond” categories, regardless of rater or trial analyzed (behind: 41.3° ± 4.7°; beyond: 51.8°± SD 6.1°, p <0.001). Conclusions The SADS was observed to have excellent interrater reliability and high discriminant validity. Furthermore, there was a distinct closed chain ankle DF ROM difference between the “behind” and “beyond” SADS nominal scores. Clinical Relevance The SADS can be used as a quick and efficient closed chain ankle DF ROM screen. Level of Evidence 2b

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