title: Effect of warming up on knee proprioception before sporting activity.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  It is now generally accepted that the ligamentous structures of the knee not only act as mechanical restraints but also have a neurophysiological role in joint function and protection. A report that knee joint laxity increases with exercise raised the question as to whether there is any compensatory change in joint position appreciation.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To test whether there is a compensatory mechanism for increased ligamentous laxity during normal levels of activity.
  
  
  METHODS
  Joint position appreciation was measured, using a previously reported technique, in the knees of sportsmen at rest and after warm up.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Joint position appreciation was found to be significantly more sensitive after warm up (p = 0.005).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  These findings indicate that joint position appreciation within the knee accommodates physiological changes within the ligaments and muscles after exercise.
authors.affiliation: Northwick Park Hospital, Watford Road, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3UJ, UK. mjbartle@freenetname.co.uk
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Bartlett
authors.forename: P J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Warren
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D008297:Male; D008465:Mechanoreceptors / Q000502:physiology; D018583:Pliability; D011434:Proprioception / Q000502:physiology*; D013177:Sports / Q000502:physiology*