Test Properties of Lower Quarter Y-Balance Test: Effect of Verbal Instructions and Focus Techniques

The Lower Quadrant Y-Balance Test (LQYBT) is a landmark test used in assessing lower extremity performance, determining risk factors for injury, and making return-to-sport decisions. Studies have shown that the individual's focus of attention affects balance. The literature, has shown that the use of external focus is more effective than the use of internal focus in the execution of a movement.Consistent with these findings, the use of an external focus instruction during the LQYBT may lead to achieve more realistic and a higher performance outcome than the test result with standard instructions. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effects of using different instructions and focusing techniques on test performance on the LQYBT. The secondary aim was to investigate the reliability of the different instructions and focus tests we used for the LQYBT. Hypothesis of the study that test performance can be further enhanced by differentiating the instructions and focus techniques. A more effective assessment of individual performance may help us to make a more realistic decision to return to sport.