Katherine A. Martinez1, Heather R. Scheerer1, Ryan M. Weatherwax1, Aaron M Sinnott2, Michael E. Paddack1. Functional Movement Screen and Y-Balance Test Scores, With Personal Protective Equipment Among Wildland Firefighters: Pilot Findings. 1Department of Health and Exercise Science, Southern Oregon University, Ashland, OR, USA. 2Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, Sport Neurotrauma Research Laboratory, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
Abstract
Purpose: Wildland firefighting is a dangerous profession and maintaining adequate strength and balance is essential in injury reduction. However, the impact of personal protective equipment (PPE) on injury risk is not well understood. The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) and the Y-Balance Test (YBT) are intended to identify movement limitations but have only minimally been examined among wildland firefighters (WLFF) utilizing PPE. The purpose is to determine if PPE affects FMS and YBT scores among WLFF. Methods: A randomized crossover study of ten well-trained, experienced WLFF employed and physically qualified for deployment was conducted testing FMS and YBT outcomes with and without PPE. Results: Significant differences were found in the YBT right and left lower body composite scores (RLQ CS and LLQ CS respectively), p = .005 for both, right and left anterior reach (p = 0.001 and p < 0.05 respectively), right and left posterior medial reach (p = 0.005 and p = 0.009 respectively), and in left posterior lateral reach (p = 0.047). Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest the use of PPE negatively impacts scores and might increase the risk of injury for WLFF. This information may be useful in developing injury prevention programs for this and other PPE wearing populations.