Sports

Research

10 pages, 259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Star Excursion Balance Test as a Predictor of Musculoskeletal Injury and Lower Back Pain in Non-Professional Soccer Players

by Iva Sklempe Kokic, Katarina Petric, Danijela Kuna, Stjepan Jelica and Tomislav Kokic

Sports 2023, 11(7), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11070129 - 6 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2313

Abstract

Soccer is a sport with worldwide popularity but has a substantial risk of injury. Clinical screening tools are an important factor in strategies of injury prevention. The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) [...] Read more.

Soccer is a sport with worldwide popularity but has a substantial risk of injury. Clinical screening tools are an important factor in strategies of injury prevention. The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) and injury and lower back pain (LBP) in amateur soccer players. The research was performed as a longitudinal cohort study on 42 amateur male soccer players with 15.8 ± 6.6 years of soccer playing (age: 25.5 ± 6 years). Participants were surveyed with regard to their soccer playing, injuries, and LBP, and the SEBT was performed. They were followed for 3.5 months. At the follow-up, an additional set of data regarding injuries and LBP was gathered. Significant differences were found in all directions and in the composite score of the SEBT between uninjured and injured players. Shorter distance in all directions and a lower composite score were associated with injury in general. Shorter distances in all but the anterior direction and a lower composite score were associated with lower extremity injury, and shorter anterior distance was associated with LBP. Amateur soccer players with lower SEBT scores are more prone to injuries in general, as well as injuries of the lower extremities. SEBT presents as a useful clinical screening tool in identifying amateur soccer players at risk of injury. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

11 pages, 1895 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Leg Dominance—Surface Stability Interaction: Effects on Postural Control Assessed by Smartphone-Based Accelerometry

by Arunee Promsri, Kotchakorn Bangkomdet, Issariya Jindatham and Thananya Jenchang

Sports 2023, 11(4), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11040075 - 30 Mar 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2586

Abstract

The preferential use of one leg over another in performing lower-limb motor tasks (i.e., leg dominance) is considered to be one of the internal risk factors for sports-related lower-limb injuries. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of leg dominance on postural [...] Read more.

The preferential use of one leg over another in performing lower-limb motor tasks (i.e., leg dominance) is considered to be one of the internal risk factors for sports-related lower-limb injuries. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of leg dominance on postural control during unipedal balancing on three different support surfaces with increasing levels of instability: a firm surface, a foam pad, and a multiaxial balance board. In addition, the interaction effect between leg dominance and surface stability was also tested. To this end, a tri-axial accelerometer-based smartphone sensor was placed over the lumbar spine (L5) of 22 young adults (21.5 ± 0.6 years) to record postural accelerations. Sample entropy (SampEn) was applied to acceleration data as a measure of postural sway regularity (i.e., postural control complexity). The results show that leg dominance (p < 0.001) and interaction (p < 0.001) effects emerge in all acceleration directions. Specifically, balancing on the dominant (kicking) leg shows more irregular postural acceleration fluctuations (high SampEn), reflecting a higher postural control efficiency or automaticity than balancing on the non-dominant leg. However, the interaction effects suggest that unipedal balancing training on unstable surfaces is recommended to reduce interlimb differences in neuromuscular control for injury prevention and rehabilitation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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11 pages, 585 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of a 5-Week Individualised Training Program on Physical Performance and Measures Associated with Musculoskeletal Injury Risk in Army Personnel: A Pilot Study

by Chelsea Smith, Kenji Doma, Brian Heilbronn and Anthony Leicht

Sports 2023, 11(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11010008 - 3 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2896

Abstract

Objective: To examine the feasibility and effect of an individualised and force-plate guided training program on physical performance and musculoskeletal injury risk factors in army personnel. Design: Pre-post, randomised control. Methods: Fourteen male and five female Australian Army soldiers were randomised into two [...] Read more.

Objective: To examine the feasibility and effect of an individualised and force-plate guided training program on physical performance and musculoskeletal injury risk factors in army personnel. Design: Pre-post, randomised control. Methods: Fourteen male and five female Australian Army soldiers were randomised into two groups and performed 5-weeks of physical training. The control group (n = 9) completed standard, group-designed, physical training whilst the experimental group (n = 8) completed an individualised training program. Physical (push-ups, multi-stage fitness test, three repetition maximum (3RM) for squat, strict press, deadlift and floor press), occupational (weight-loaded march time), and technological assessments (two-leg and one-leg countermovement jumps (CMJ), one-leg balance, one-arm plank) were conducted prior to and following the training period. Comparisons between groups and changes within groups were conducted via Mann–Whitney U tests. Results: Compared to the control group, the experimental group exhibited a significantly smaller improvement for weight-loaded march time (−0.7% ± 4.0% vs. −5.1% ± 3.0%, p = 0.03) and a greater improvement for deadlift-3RM (20.6% ± 11.9% vs. 8.4% ± 6.8%, p = 0.056). All other outcomes were similar between groups. Visually favourable alterations in the two-leg CMJ profile with no reports of injuries were noted for the experimental group. Conclusions: Individualised physical training was feasible within an army setting and, for the most part, produced similar physical, occupational and technological performances to that of standard, group-designed physical training. These preliminary results provide a foundation for future research to expand upon and clarify the benefits of individualised training programs on long-term physical performance and injury risk/incidence in active combat army personnel. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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14 pages, 1295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Serum Amyloid Beta Precursor Protein, Neurofilament Light, and Visinin-like Protein-1 in Rugby Players: An Exploratory Study

by Jessica E. Morgan, Sarean A. Gaynor-Metzinger, Steven D. Beck, Iustin C. Scobercea, India J. Austin, Hannah E. Blankenship, Julien S. Baker, Allan Knox, Jorge M. Serrador and Matthew J. Rogatzki

Sports 2022, 10(12), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports10120194 - 29 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2236

Abstract

Concussion diagnosis is difficult and may be improved with the addition of a blood-based biomarker that indicates concussion. The purpose of this research was to investigate the capability of serum amyloid beta precursor protein (APP), neurofilament light (NfL), and visinin-like protein-1 (VILIP-1) to [...] Read more.

Concussion diagnosis is difficult and may be improved with the addition of a blood-based biomarker that indicates concussion. The purpose of this research was to investigate the capability of serum amyloid beta precursor protein (APP), neurofilament light (NfL), and visinin-like protein-1 (VILIP-1) to distinguish athletes who were diagnosed with a concussion pitch-side. An observational cross-sectional study design was used to replicate sideline concussion diagnosis. Subjects included mutually exclusive pre-match (n = 9), post-match (n = 15), and SRC (n = 7) groups. Six paired pre-and post-match subjects were analyzed for APP. APP increased significantly from pre-match (mean = 57.98 pg·mL⁻¹, SD = 63.21 pg·mL⁻¹) to post-match (mean = 111.37 pg·mL⁻¹, SD = 106.89 pg·mL⁻¹, p = 0.048) in the paired subjects. NfL was lower in the SRC group (median = 8.71 pg·mL⁻¹, IQR = 6.09 pg·mL⁻¹) compared to the post-match group (median = 29.60 pg·mL⁻¹, IQR = 57.45 pg·mL⁻¹, p < 0.001). VILIP-1 was higher in the post-match group (median = 212.18 pg·mL⁻¹, IQR = 345.00 pg·mL⁻¹) compared to both the pre-match (median = 32.63 pg·mL⁻¹, IQR = 52.24 pg·mL⁻¹), p = 0.001) and SRC (median = 30.21 pg·mL⁻¹, IQR = 47.20 pg·mL⁻¹), p = 0.003) groups. APP, NfL, and VILIP-1 were all able to distinguish between pre-match and post-match groups (AUROC > 0.700) but not from the SRC group (AUROC < 0.660). Our results show that APP, NfL, and VILIP-1 were not helpful in differentiating concussed from non-concussed athletes pitch-side in this study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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12 pages, 588 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characteristics of Fitness-Related Injuries in The Netherlands: A Descriptive Epidemiological Study

by Ellen Kemler, Lisa Noteboom and Anne-Marie van Beijsterveldt

Sports 2022, 10(12), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports10120187 - 22 Nov 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3384

Abstract

Although general information is available, specifically detailed information on gym-based fitness-related injuries in the general recreational fitness population is lacking. The aim of our study was to obtain more insight into injuries occurring as a result of gym-based fitness activities. A descriptive online [...] Read more.

Although general information is available, specifically detailed information on gym-based fitness-related injuries in the general recreational fitness population is lacking. The aim of our study was to obtain more insight into injuries occurring as a result of gym-based fitness activities. A descriptive online epidemiological study was conducted in November 2020. The survey was distributed by a market research agency to members of their research panel. A total of 494 Dutch fitness participants aged ≥ 18 years (mean 38.9; 59% male) who had sustained a fitness-related injury in the preceding 12 months were included in the study. Most injuries occurred during strength training, individual cardio exercise, yoga/Pilates, cardio exercise in group lessons, and CrossFit. The shoulder, leg, and knee were the most common injured body parts; 73.1% of the injuries occurred during unsupervised gym-based fitness activities, and 46.2% of the injuries occurred during one specific exercise or when using a specific fitness device: running (e.g., on the treadmill) (22.8%); bench press (11.8%); or squats (9.6%). Overuse or overload (n = 119), missteps and sprains (n = 48), or an incorrect posture or movement (n = 43) were most often mentioned as causes of injury. Conclusions: Most self-reported gym-based fitness-related injuries occur during strength training and individual cardio exercise. Special attention should be given to the shoulder during strength training and to the lower extremities during cardio exercise. Injury prevention interventions should be able to be carried out without supervision. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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14 pages, 1044 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Muscle Asymmetries in the Lower Limbs of Male Soccer Players: Preliminary Findings on the Association between Countermovement Jump and Tensiomyography

by Alex Buoite Stella, Annalisa Galimi, Miriam Martini, Luca Di Lenarda, Luigi Murena and Manuela Deodato

Sports 2022, 10(11), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports10110177 - 14 Nov 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3940

Abstract

Strength and power asymmetries have been observed in different sports, including soccer. Such asymmetries, as well as the bilateral deficit (BLD), can be assessed during different tasks, static or dynamic, and with different methods and devices, in order to detect the possible different [...] Read more.

Strength and power asymmetries have been observed in different sports, including soccer. Such asymmetries, as well as the bilateral deficit (BLD), can be assessed during different tasks, static or dynamic, and with different methods and devices, in order to detect the possible different aspects, as well as the association with physical performance and injuries. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between muscle asymmetries and BLD during a countermovement jump (CMJ), and tensiomyography (TMG) parameters and asymmetries, in the lower limbs of male soccer players. A total of 23 male soccer players (18 ± 4 years) were recruited. Bilateral and unilateral CMJs were performed, and peak power (W) and height (cm) were obtained. TMG was performed on different muscles of the lower limbs, and lateral and functional symmetries were obtained. Playing position and history of injuries were collected. CMJ inter-limb symmetry was found to significantly correlate with biceps femoris (r = 0.574, p = 0.004) and soleus (r = 0.437, p = 0.037) lateral symmetry. Players in central roles presented significantly worse functional symmetry scores of the knee than defense players (−17.5%, 95% CI −31.2–−3.9; p = 0.10). Participants reporting a history of injury at the ankle were characterized by significantly lower functional symmetry in both the dominant (43%, 39.5–48.0 vs. 74.5%, 46.5–89.3, p = 0.019) and non-dominant (45%, 42.5–46.0 vs. 81.0%, 45.8–90.3, p = 0.024) ankle. Findings from this preliminary study suggest an association between lower-limb muscle asymmetries during a dynamic task, such as jumping, and muscle contractile properties evaluated with TMG; moreover, functional asymmetries may be present after ankle injuries. Future studies in larger samples should evaluate the presence of such asymmetries as predictors or characteristics of different muscular and joint injuries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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15 pages, 1396 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cross-Cultural Adaption and Validation of the Dutch Version of the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic Questionnaire in Juvenile Baseball Pitchers

by A. J. R. Leenen, Amber Hurry, Femke van Dis, Erik van der Graaff, H. E. J. Veeger and M. J. M. Hoozemans

Sports 2022, 10(11), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports10110163 - 24 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1843

Abstract

Monitoring the performance and functional status of baseball pitchers’ upper extremity is important in maintaining the athlete’s health and performance. This study validated a Dutch translation of the original English Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic (KJOC) against the previously validated Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder [...] Read more.

Monitoring the performance and functional status of baseball pitchers’ upper extremity is important in maintaining the athlete’s health and performance. This study validated a Dutch translation of the original English Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic (KJOC) against the previously validated Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) questionnaires in a group of talented juvenile Dutch baseball pitchers. Three times, from 2014–2016, 107 pitchers completed the Dutch KJOC, DASH and WOSI questionnaires. Participants’ questionnaire scores were analysed for the whole group and the symptomatic player subgroup separately. Internal consistency, construct validity and ceiling and floor effects were examined. Cronbach’s alpha was consistently above 0.8 for the three time periods for the whole group, and ranged between 0.62 and 0.86 for the symptomatic subgroup. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients ranged from 0.47 to 0.67 for the whole group and 0.32 to 0.99 for the symptomatic subgroup. No floor effects were observed in the scores of the KJOC and only a ceiling effect for the whole group (15.2%) at one time period. The Dutch version of the KJOC has shown acceptable internal consistency and construct validity and can be used to assess overhead athletes’ shoulder and elbow functionality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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11 pages, 1101 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Injuries and Strength Training Practices in Collegiate Tennis

by Ecaterina Vasenina, William B. Hammert, Ryo Kataoka, Scott J. Dankel and Samuel L. Buckner

Sports 2022, 10(10), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports10100149 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4196

Abstract

Strength and conditioning practices may influence injury rates in the sport of tennis. Methods: Coaches reported the number injuries over the past year. Coaches were also surveyed on whether their training program included training related to upper-body or lower-body strength, power, muscle growth, [...] Read more.

Strength and conditioning practices may influence injury rates in the sport of tennis. Methods: Coaches reported the number injuries over the past year. Coaches were also surveyed on whether their training program included training related to upper-body or lower-body strength, power, muscle growth, and eccentric exercise. Separate regression analyses were run in the upper and lower body to examine the relationship between injuries and participation in training focused on strength, power, growth, and maximal eccentric exercise. A total of 111 coaches were surveyed. The most frequent injuries observed were ankle sprains (144 injures), followed by paraspinal muscle strains (126 injuries). When pooled, there were a total of 355 lower-body and 260 upper-body injuries. Strength and conditioning practices explained 9.9% of the variance of injury rates in the upper body (R² = 0.099). The only significant predictor of upper-body injury was participation in upper-body muscle growth training (β = 1.613, p = 0.013). In addition, training practices explained 11.1% of the variance of injury in the lower body (R² = 0.111). Coaches value injury prevention exercise, sports-specific training and flexibility and mobility training the most, with muscle growth and maximal power ranked lowest. Additionally, the most frequent injuries observed in collegiate tennis players were ankle sprains (144 injures), followed by paraspinal muscle strains (126 injuries). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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8 pages, 473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cutting Movement Assessment Scores during Anticipated and Unanticipated 90-Degree Sidestep Cutting Manoeuvres within Female Professional Footballers

by Chloe Needham and Lee Herrington

Sports 2022, 10(9), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports10090128 - 24 Aug 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2650

Abstract

Background: ACL injuries present a considerable burden in female football, with highest incidence being related to change of direction (COD) tasks. The aim was to identify if differences existed between an anticipated and unanticipated 90-degree cutting task using the CMAS. Methods: 11 female [...] Read more.

Background: ACL injuries present a considerable burden in female football, with highest incidence being related to change of direction (COD) tasks. The aim was to identify if differences existed between an anticipated and unanticipated 90-degree cutting task using the CMAS. Methods: 11 female professional footballers completed twelve 90-degree COD tasks (6 anticipated, 6 unanticipated). Participants performed the unanticipated task in response to a moving football at the start of their acceleration. All COD tasks were filmed and assessed using the CMAS. Results: The CMAS score for the unanticipated COD task (5.53 ± 0.71) was significantly larger than for the anticipated COD task (3.55 ± 0.85, p < 0.012). Excellent intra-rater reliability was observed (ICC = 0.97) for analysis of CMAS scores. Conclusions: Female footballers in this sample demonstrated a greater CMAS score during an unanticipated COD task compared to an anticipated COD task. These athletes are therefore more likely to display ‘high-risk’ movement patterns, thus greater risk of injury. Reacting to a sporting implement, such as a moving ball, may be a contributing factor to these results. Further research into unanticipated COD tasks should be considered to determine why these differences occur and the impact of anticipation on performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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10 pages, 852 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Higher Leg and Trunk Muscle Activation during Balance Control in Copers versus People with Chronic Ankle Instability and Healthy Female Athletes

by Mina Karbalaeimahdi, Mohammad Hossein Alizadeh, Hooman Minoonejad, David G. Behm and Shahab Alizadeh

Sports 2022, 10(8), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports10080111 - 22 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2716

Abstract

More than 70% of people with ankle sprain experience chronic ankle instability. However, some people are well adapted to this damage (copers) and do not suffer from chronic ankle instability (CAI). This cross-sectional study involved 34 female athletes, who were classified into three [...] Read more.

More than 70% of people with ankle sprain experience chronic ankle instability. However, some people are well adapted to this damage (copers) and do not suffer from chronic ankle instability (CAI). This cross-sectional study involved 34 female athletes, who were classified into three groups (athletes with CAI, copers, and healthy athletes) and tested on a Biodex Balance System. Surface electromyography (EMG) and balance scores were monitored. The coper and healthy group exhibited higher medial gastrocnemius (MG) EMG activity during unstable balance conditions. The rectus abdominus (RA) in the coper group and rectus femoris (RF) in the healthy group showed greater EMG activity compared to CAI during unstable conditions. During stable conditions, the coper group showed greater RA EMG activity compared to CAI, as well as higher tibialis anterior (TA) EMG activity compared to the healthy group. Additionally, balance error scores were higher in the CAI group than those in the healthy group under unstable conditions. In conclusion, decreased EMG activity of the MG, RF, and RA in CAI athletes may contribute to impaired balance in these individuals. The increased EMG activity of the MG, TA, and RA in copers might result in more trunk and ankle stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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16 pages, 3102 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Could Proprioceptive Stimuli Change Saddle Pressure on Male Cyclists during Different Hand Positions? An Exploratory Study of the Effect of the Equistasi^® Device

by Annamaria Guiotto, Fabiola Spolaor, Giovanni Albani and Zimi Sawacha

Sports 2022, 10(6), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports10060088 - 2 Jun 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2391

Abstract

When pedaling, the excessive pressure on the seat has the potential to produce injuries and this can strongly affect sport performance. Recently, a large effort has been dedicated to the reduction of the pressure occurring at the saddle region. Our work aims to [...] Read more.

When pedaling, the excessive pressure on the seat has the potential to produce injuries and this can strongly affect sport performance. Recently, a large effort has been dedicated to the reduction of the pressure occurring at the saddle region. Our work aims to verify the possibility of modifying cyclists’ pedaling posture, and consequently the pressure on the saddle, by applying a proprioceptive stimulus. Equistasi^® (Equistasi srl, Milano, Italy) is a wearable device that emits focal mechanical vibrations able to transform the body temperature into mechanical vibratory energy via the embedded nanotechnology. The data acquired through a pressure mapping system (GebioMized^®) on 70 cyclists, with and without Equistasi^®, were analyzed. Pedaling in three positions was recorded on a spin trainer: with hands on the top, hands on the drop handlebar, and hands on the lever. Average force, contact surface, and average and maximum pressure each in different regions of the saddle were analyzed, as well as integral pressure time and center of pressure. In the comparisons between hands positions, overall pressure and force variables were significantly lower in the drop-handlebar position at the rear saddle (p < 0.03) and higher in hand-on-lever and drop-handlebar positions at the front saddle (p < 0.01). When applying the Equistasi device, the contact surface was significantly larger in all hand positions (p < 0.05), suggesting that focal stimulation of the lumbar proprioceptive system can change cyclists’ posture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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9 pages, 644 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Intra- and Inter-Rater Reliability of a Hip Rotation Range-of-Motion Measurement Using a Smartphone Application in Academy Football (Soccer) Players

by Paul Spork, James O’Brien, Morris Sepoetro, Maximilian Plachel and Thomas Stöggl

Sports 2021, 9(11), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports9110148 - 26 Oct 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4800

Abstract

The clinical assessment of hip rotation range-of-motion (ROM) is important for managing hip and groin injuries in footballers. Previously published reliability studies on hip ROM have employed protocols that are difficult to replicate under everyday clinical conditions. This single trial, intra- and inter-rater [...] Read more.

The clinical assessment of hip rotation range-of-motion (ROM) is important for managing hip and groin injuries in footballers. Previously published reliability studies on hip ROM have employed protocols that are difficult to replicate under everyday clinical conditions. This single trial, intra- and inter-rater reliability study included 41 male academy football (soccer) players, aged 14–15 years, from one European football academy. Passive hip internal rotation (IR) and external rotation (ER) ROM were measured in supine with hip and knee flexed to 90°. The ROM was determined using a smartphone application, with the smartphone attached to the lower leg. The tests were performed on two separate occasions, one week apart, by two different physiotherapists and on both sides (left and right hips). Reliability was evaluated using Intra-Class Correlation Coefficients (ICCs) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC). Hip IR and ER ROM displayed moderate to good intra-rater agreement (ICCs 0.54–0.75), with MDCs ranging from 10.9° to 16.4°. Inter-rater reliability displayed poor to moderate reliability (ICCs 0.33–0.75), with MDCs ranging from 11.7° to 16.5°. A hip rotation ROM test using a smartphone application and a protocol closely reflecting everyday clinical conditions displayed moderate to good intra-rater reliability and poor to moderate inter-rater reliability. Due to the high MDCs, the practical applicability of this test procedure is limited and further refinement is necessary. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

15 pages, 2545 KiB

Open AccessReview

Turbans vs. Helmets: A Systematic Narrative Review of the Literature on Head Injuries and Impact Loci of Cranial Trauma in Several Recreational Outdoor Sports

by Dirk H. R. Spennemann

Sports 2021, 9(12), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports9120172 - 20 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3954

Abstract

When in public, faith-based mandates require practising Sikh men to wear a turban which may not be covered by hats or caps. This makes it impossible for practising Sikhs to wear helmets and other protective headwear, mandatory in many countries and facilities for [...] Read more.

When in public, faith-based mandates require practising Sikh men to wear a turban which may not be covered by hats or caps. This makes it impossible for practising Sikhs to wear helmets and other protective headwear, mandatory in many countries and facilities for engagement in recreational pursuits (e.g., skiing) and on adventure outdoor recreation camps mandatorily run for school groups. The result is often social exclusion and ostracisation in the case of school children. Despite studies into the efficacy of protective helmets in some recreational outdoor activity settings, virtually nothing is known about the protective potential of turbans. This paper systematically reviews the extant literature on head injuries in several recreational outdoor activities and sports sectors (aerial, water, winter, wheeled and animal-based sports) and finds that the extant literature is of limited value when trying to understand the spatial distribution of trauma on the cranial surface. As the data do not permit to make inferences on the protective potential of turbans, future systematic, evidence-based epidemiological studies derived from hospital admissions and forensic examinations are required. Failure to do so perpetuates social exclusion and discrimination of religious grounds without an evidentiary basis for defensible public health measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

18 pages, 4723 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Comparison of Conservative Interventions for Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review and Recommendations for Rehabilitation

by Pilar Dizon, Michael Jeanfavre, Gretchen Leff and Rachel Norton

Sports 2023, 11(3), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11030053 - 24 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6027

Abstract

Knowledge of muscular forces and adaptations with hamstring-specific exercises can optimize exercise prescription and tendon remodeling; however, studies investigating the effectiveness of the current conservative management of proximal hamstring tendinopathy (PHT) and outcomes are lacking. The purpose of this review is to provide [...] Read more.

Knowledge of muscular forces and adaptations with hamstring-specific exercises can optimize exercise prescription and tendon remodeling; however, studies investigating the effectiveness of the current conservative management of proximal hamstring tendinopathy (PHT) and outcomes are lacking. The purpose of this review is to provide insights into the efficacy of conservative therapeutic interventions in the management of PHT. In January 2022, databases including PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Embase were searched for studies assessing the effectiveness of conservative intervention compared with that of a placebo or combination of treatments on functional outcomes and pain. Studies that performed conservative management (exercise therapy and/or physical therapy modalities) in adults 18–65 years were included. Studies that performed surgical interventions or whose subjects had complete hamstring rupture/avulsion greater than a 2 cm displacement were excluded. A total of 13 studies were included: five studies compared exercise interventions, while eight studies investigated a multimodal approach of either shockwave therapy and exercise or a hybrid model incorporating exercise, shockwave therapy, and other modalities, such as ultrasound, trigger point needling, or instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. This review supports the notion that the conservative management of PHT may best be optimized through a multimodal approach incorporating a combination of tendon-specific loading at an increased length, lumbopelvic stabilization exercises, and extracorporeal shockwave therapy. With regard to hamstring-specific exercise selection, PHT may be optimally managed by including a progressive loading program at combined angles of the hip flexion at 110 degrees and the knee flexion between 45 and 90 degrees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injury: Prevention and Rehabilitation)

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