Search Results (3)

Athletes may suffer from low back pain (LBP). Some studies have considered restricted range of motion (ROM) as a risk factor for LBP in athletes; however, ROM has not been evaluated in equestrian athletes (EAs) with LBP. The aims of this research in EAs were (I) to analyze the relationship between lower limb ROM (tightness and asymmetry) and LBP and (II) to determine the reference values for lower limb ROM indicating high risk of LBP. Forty-three young (9–18 years old) EAs were voluntarily recruited in technical training camps. The EAs were assessed for 11 passive lower limb ROMs using the ROM-SPORT I Battery. LBP data were taken at the end of a 1-year period through a questionnaire. Binary logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curves were calculated. Sixty-seven percent of EA had suffered LBP. Hip adduction (OR = 1.347, medium; p = 0.015) and knee flexion (OR = 1.109, small; p = 0.023) were predictors of LBP in EAs. A hip adduction of 26° and knee flexion of 128° were found to be the optimal cutoff values for predictive screening of EAs at high risk of LBP. Full article

Low back pain (LBP) is the most common overuse musculoskeletal injury suffered by child equestrian athletes (CEA). Despite this, little is known about the risk factors related to LBP in these athletes, and very limited research has been conducted on this topic. This study was designed to investigate predictive risk factors for LBP in CEA. The purposes of this research were to determine whether anthropometric, range of motion (ROM), core endurance and sagittal spinal morphotype measures are risk factors for LBP and to establish a diagnostic cutoff value for those factors associated with LBP. Nineteen CEA between the ages of 12 and 17 years were voluntarily recruited. Potential risk factors evaluated included corporal composition, lower limb ROM, core endurance and sagittal spinal measures. Associations and predictions were calculated between these risk factors and the LBP during the last 12 months. Almost half of the CEA have suffered at least one episode of LBP. Two risk factors and cutoff values were identified as predictors of LBP in CEA: having a high body fat higher than 23% (p = 0.01) and trunk lateral flexor endurance lower to 65 s (p = 0.021), body fat being the strongest predictor. Full article

: Equestrian polo is struggling to grow and attract young players due to the perception it is a game played by royals and the rich only, and is not a real sport. This study highlights the high level of skill and athletic challenge faced by the players. Literature is scarce for polo despite its global appeal and the high value of the game in terms of historical reach and investment by the polo community. The game is also unique in sports due to the multiplicity of interactions such as player–pony, pony–ground, player–mallet, and mallet–ball. This work introduces the basics of the game with a graphical interpretation of the motion of the mallet during play. The mallet is constructed of natural materials, the shaft from a rattan cane whilst the handle and head are crafted from hardwood. Using a materials analysis approach, a testing methodology is proposed that will enable quantifiable data to be produced based on the properties and performance of the mallet. The purpose of this is to enable benchmarking of the mallet based on the material properties and their assembled response to the testing. Quasi-static load tests using a universal testing instrument are followed by dynamic testing using inertial sensors. All testing is done in planes chosen to replicate the common lines of action of match play. The quasi-static tests enabled a value for stiffness (k), and the dynamic testing enabled a damping coefficient (c) to be calculated. These quantities will enable a quantitative measure for the properties and performance of any mallet and thereby remove the subjective nature of assessment. Subsequent study will then determine how these data correlate with the performance in play, as well as impact, trajectory, and fatigue responses. Full article