Abstract: Ground Reaction Force (GRF) is a critical biomechanical variable that directly influences athletic performance and injury risk. GRF represents the force exerted by the ground on the body during physical activity and is a key factor in movements such as jumping, sprinting, landing, and changing direction. Excessive or improperly absorbed GRFs have been associated with a wide range of sports-related injuries, particularly in the lower extremities. This review paper aims to explore the relationship between GRF and sports injuries by analyzing current research across different sports disciplines, including running, soccer, basketball, gymnastics, and volleyball.

Research indicates that high vertical and horizontal GRF magnitudes, rapid loading rates, and asymmetrical force distribution are strongly correlated with the development of stress fractures, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), and Achilles tendinopathy. For example, abrupt landings or deceleration movements often expose athletes to peak GRFs of 2.5 to 6 times body weight, significantly increasing tissue loading and injury potential. Moreover, poor neuromuscular control, fatigued muscles, and inadequate footwear or playing surfaces exacerbate the effects of high GRFs.

Studies utilizing force plates, motion capture, and musculoskeletal modeling have provided deeper insights into how GRF contributes to both acute and overuse injuries. Preventive interventions, such as strength training, proprioceptive exercises, plyometric drills, and footwear design, have shown promising results in modifying GRF patterns and reducing injury incidence.

This review emphasizes the importance of understanding GRF dynamics in sports biomechanics, injury surveillance, and prevention strategies. Monitoring and optimizing GRF through training, technique modification, and equipment can significantly mitigate injury risk while enhancing athletic performance. Continued interdisciplinary research combining biomechanics, sports medicine, and rehabilitation sciences is essential for developing effective interventions targeting GRF-related injury mechanisms.

Keywords: Ground Reaction Force, Sports injuries, Biomechanics, Injury prevention, Lower extremity injuries, Force plate analysis, Loading rate

Downloads: | DOI: 10.17148/IARJSET.2025.12344