Application and Potential Mechanism of Functional Training in Preventing Lower Limb Injuries of Adult Basketball Players: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Research Objective: Functional training, as a method emphasizing multi-joint coordination and neuromuscular control, has gained significant attention in sports injury prevention in recent years. To clarify the practical effects and application characteristics of functional training in preventing lower limb injuries among adult basketball players, this study systematically reviews relevant research on functional training for lower limb injury prevention in adult basketball players. Research Methods: We searched the Web of Science, PubMed, and CNKI databases for literature on functional training interventions for lower limb injuries in adult basketball players. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the PEDro scale, and training content, frequency, duration, outcome measures, and intervention effects were extracted for comprehensive analysis. Research Results: Eleven controlled experimental studies were included, involving 1,327 participants aged 18-40 from seven countries (Lithuania, the U.S., Germany, Japan, Iran, Belgium, and Italy). The studies were published in core journals of sports medicine, rehabilitation medicine, and sports science. Intervention types included neuromuscular training, proprioceptive training, jump and balance training, hip-focused training, and sport-specific functional training. Training content primarily featured single-leg jump stability exercises, dynamic balance, core anti-rotation control, and basketball-specific movement training. The intervention frequency was 2-4 sessions per week, lasting 10-120 minutes per session, over 6-22 weeks. Key outcome measures included increased hip, knee, and ankle flexion angles, improved vertical jump height (CMJ) and center of pressure (COP) control, optimized electromyography (EMG) metrics, enhanced toe strength, and a significant reduction in lower limb injury incidence. Conclusions: Functional training can effectively enhance lower limb joint mobility and dynamic stability in adult basketball players in the short term, reducing injury risks during sports activities. The intervention is flexible, practical, and adaptable, making it a valuable addition to daily training and pre-competition preparation.