Three-Dimensional Kinematics and Kinetics of the Overhead Deep Squat in Healthy Adults: A Descriptive Study

The squat, a fundamental functional movement, is prone to biomechanical inefficiencies. Several screening batteries utilize the Overhead Deep Squat (OHDS) to assess individuals for stability and mobility deficits. The purpose of this study was to create a comprehensive description of the three-dimensional (3D) kinematics and kinetics for normal, healthy participants during an overhead deep squat. This descriptive study containing 70 healthy young adults (31 male, 39 female; aged 18–35) utilized a video motion tracking system interfaced with force plates to obtain full-body 3D kinematics and kinetics. Seventy-three retro-reflective markers from the combined Plug-in Gait, Vicon upper limb, and Oxford Multi-segment foot models were used. Visual 3D software was used to determine joint kinematics and kinetics. Means and standard deviations of lower limb and trunk segment joint angles in the sagittal, transverse, and horizontal planes, as well as the ground reaction forces and net internal joint moments, were computed. The largest movements and joint moments occurred in the sagittal plane; however, the frontal and transverse plane appear crucial to providing stability and mobility. These results can be used as pilot normative data for both future studies and during assessments of biomechanical abnormalities in training and rehabilitation settings.