The effect of the KNEE program for Netball players on the modified Star Excursion Balance Test – a randomized controlled trial

Background: The aim was to investigate the effect of the KNEE program on postural control as measured by the modified Star Excursion Balance test (mSEBT) in Australian club level netball players. Methods: Two netball teams from Netball NSW Premier-League were recruited and randomized to complete either the KNEE program or a traditional warm-up. Cumulative, anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions of the mSEBT were measured for both limbs at baseline, 8-weeks, and 5-months. Linear mixed models were used to assess the effect of the intervention on mSEBT outcomes. Results: When compared to a traditional warm-up, the KNEE program led to improvements in postural control in the PM direction of the mSEBT at 8 weeks (R: p = 0.005; L = 0.016) and 5 months (R: p = 0.006 and L: p = 0.026). For the cumulative score, there was a main effect of time with significant improvements between baseline and subsequent time points (p < 0.03), but there was no effect of group or interaction. No significant changes were found in ANT and PL directions. Conclusion: The KNEE program when implemented as a warm-up prior to training and match-play can improve postural control in the PM direction which is integral to Netball.