Interaction Between Surface Stiffness and Lower Limb Stiffness and its Effects on the Performance and Injury

Abstract

The purpose of this review study is to review the studies that have assessed the interaction between surface stiffness and lower limb stiffness. There is a general hypothesis that with the increase of surface stiffness, the lower limb stiffness decreases or vice versa. These interactions take place with the aim of maintaining the dynamics of the center of mass and reducing the energy consumption during movement. One of the mechanisms for these interactions is the change in joint stiffness and leg geometry. Some studies suggested that the stretch reflex has no role in changing the lower limb stiffness. Although interactions between lower limb stiffness and surface stiffness has been recognized, there is little evidence about neuromuscular mechanism of these interactions. More studies is needed in this filed.