Scoping Review of One-Dimension Statistical Parametric Mapping in Lower Limb Biomechanical Analysis

BackgroundBiomechanics is crucial in enhancing sports performance and preventing injury. Traditionally, discrete point analysis is used to analyze important kinetic and kinematic data points, reducing continuous data to a single point. One-dimensional Statistical Parametric Mapping (spm1d) offers a more comprehensive approach by assessing entire movement curves instead of isolated peak values. Nevertheless, spm1d is still underutilized in various sports and sports-related injuries. PurposeTo summarize the existing literature on the application of spm1d in sports biomechanics, including the kinetics and kinematics of the hip, knee, and ankle joints, as well as to identify gaps in the literature that may require further research. MethodsA scoping review was conducted, searching PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases. English peer-reviewed studies using SPM to assess lower limb kinetics or kinematics in different sports or sports-related injuries were included. In contrast, reviews, meta-analyses, conference abstracts, grey literature, and studies focusing on non-kinetic or kinematic outcomes were excluded. ResultsThe review yielded 129 papers, with an increased number of studies published in the last three years. Of these studies, 81 examined healthy individuals (63%), and 48 focused on injured populations (37%). Running (n=28), cutting (n=21), and jumping/landing (n=14) were the most common activities. The most prevalent sport-related injuries examined were anterior cruciate ligament rupture (n=21), chronic ankle instability (n=16), and hip-related pain (n=9). Research gaps include the underrepresentation of common sports and movements, small sample size, lack of studies in non-laboratory settings and varied active age groups, and absence of evaluations on the effects of protective sports gear other than shoes. ConclusionThe application of spm1d in sports biomechanics demonstrates diverse uses in sports performance, injury reduction, and rehabilitation. While spm1d shows promise in improving our understanding of sports biomechanics, there are still significant gaps in the literature that present future research opportunities.