bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ECCENTRIC HAMSTRING STRENGTH DURING THE NORDIC HAMSTRING EXERCISES IS A RISK FACTOR FOR HAMSTRING STRAIN INJURY IN ELITE AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL: A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Authors: Opar D , Williams M , Timmins R , Hickey J , Duhig S , Shield A
Published: March 2014

Background

The Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) reduces the risk of hamstring strain injury (HSI). It is unknown if measuring eccentric hamstring strength during the NHE can predict risk of future HSI in elite Australian footballers.

Objective

To determine if measures of eccentric hamstring strength during the NHE identify athletes at risk of future HSI.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Single competitive season in elite Australian football.

Participants

Elite Australian footballers able to perform the NHE maximally at the time of testing. 210 athletes from 5 teams had their eccentric hamstring strength assessed.

Risk factor assessment

Eccentric hamstring strength was determined using a custom made device at the start and end of pre-season training. Reports of previous history of hamstring, quadriceps, groin and calf injury in the prior 12 months and any history of anterior cruciate ligament injury for all athletes were ascertained.

Main Outcome Measurements

Prospective occurrence of HSI. The hypotheses (a priori), were that athletes with lower levels of eccentric hamstring strength and greater between limb imbalances in strength would be at greater risk of HSI.

Results

Low levels of eccentric hamstring strength at the start and end of preseason training increased the risk of future HSI by 3.3 (P=.002) and 2.8 fold (P=.027) respectively. Prior HSI increased the risk of future HSI by 3.1 fold (P=.018). No measure of between limb imbalance or any other prior injury data increased the risk of future HSI. Multivariate logistic regression revealed an interaction between increasing age and eccentric hamstring weakness leading to an increased risk of HSI.

Conclusions

Low levels of eccentric hamstring strength during the NHE increases the risk of future HSI in elite Australian footballers and this effect is magnified in older athletes.
CURRENT KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE TOWARD CONCUSSION AMONG JAPANESE JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS AND COACHES, AND EFFECTIVENESS OF EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTION
Authors: Otomo M , Torii S , Fukubayashi T
Published: March 2014

Background

Recent studies have emphasized the concussion education for all individuals who are involved in school sanctioned athletic activities.

Objective

(1) to investigate current knowledge and awareness of concussion among junior high school teachers and coaches; and (2) to assess the effectiveness of educational intervention on concussion for junior high school teachers and coaches.

Design

Questionnaire study (retrospective data). “Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports” and “Pocket SCAT 2” were translated to Japanese by the researcher and used in the educational intervention.

Setting

This study setting was youth sports.

Participants

122 junior high school teachers and coaches.

Interventions

We did a survey immediately before and after lecture on the same day.

Main outcome measurements

The questionnaire showed 34 percent of the participants reported the concussions of the students in their activities. Also, compared with PE and nursing teachers, other teachers had less awareness of the concussions.

Results

Participants might have misconceptions on the concussions; thus there were potentially more participants whose students experienced the concussions. At the lecture, there were high satisfaction levels with items that the participants wanted to know in the lecture. It was necessary to consider the time when to start the lecture and length of the lecture. Furthermore, the questionnaire taken after the lecture showed lack of the knowledge on the concussion; thus the lecture could have great effectiveness to the individuals related to student-athletes' activity.

Conclusion

All participants might have misconceptions on the concussions. But their knowledge and attitude toward concussion was heightened by our lecture. In future research, it is important to increase subjects of the questionnaire and to identify effectiveness of long-term lectures. Furthermore, subjects of future research should involve student-athletes and their parents in order for all individual who related to athletic activities to obtain proper knowledge and awareness of the concussion.
AWARENESS AND USE OF THE ADULT PRE-EXERCISE SCREENING SYSTEM (APSS) IN THE AUSTRALIAN FITNESS INDUSTRY
Authors: Perera N , Keyzer P , Dietrich J , Norton K , Sekendiz B , Jones V , Coyle I , Finch C
Published: March 2014

Background

The Australian Adult Pre-Exercise Screening System (APSS) was developed as the national standard to promote quality control, consistency of practices across the industry and use of pre-exercise screening as a risk management tool to identify and manage health and injury risks associated with fitness activities. Stage 1 of APSS is compulsory and aims to identify those at high-risk of cardiovascular, metabolic or respiratory diseases and refer to medical/allied health professionals for clearance. Stage 2 and 3 are optional and screen for moderate or low risk individuals.

Objective

To evaluate awareness and use of the APSS across the Australia-wide fitness industry.

Design

A nationwide online self-report survey completed by fitness professionals.

Setting

Australia-wide Fitness Industry using snowball sampling.

Participants

1178 adults, who own, manage or work in a registered/unregistered fitness business.

Main outcome measurements

1) Awareness and frequency of use of APSS, and 2) frequency of pre-exercise screening of any form and satisfaction of the pre-exercise screening being used.

Results

24% of respondents were insufficiently aware of the APSS, 47% aware and 29% were fully aware of APSS. Only 20% of respondents used APSS extremely frequently, 35% used APSS frequently and 45% used APSS infrequently. 65% of survey respondents always conducted a pre-exercise screening with their clients. 66% believed that their pre-exercise medical screenings of customers were good; 22% reported extremely good and 12% reported it was poor. Chi-squared tests identified significant relationships between conducting any pre-exercise screening and frequency of use of APSS (P<.001), satisfaction of pre-exercise screening and frequency of APSS use (P<.001), and awareness of APSS and the frequency of its use (P<.001).

Conclusions

Frequency of use of APSS as a risk management tool by fitness professionals is strongly correlated with their awareness of it, their level of satisfaction of pre-exercising screening being used.
EPIDEMIOLOGY OF HEAD INJURIES IN ENGLISH COMMUNITY LEVEL RUGBY UNION
Authors: Roberts S , Trewartha G , England M , Goodison W , Stokes K
Published: March 2014

Background

The rate and severity of head injuries are of particular interest in contact sports but are under-researched in amateur rugby union.

Objective

To investigate the epidemiology of head injuries in English community rugby union.

Design

Using a prospective cohort design, information was collected for head injuries resulting in a ‘time-loss’ absence of 8 days or greater from match play and those requiring a ‘medical attendance’ during match play.

Setting

English community rugby union, during seasons 2009/10 (n=46 clubs), 2010/11 (n=67 clubs) and 2011/12 (n=76 clubs) resulting in 92700 player hours.

Participants

All consenting players of participating clubs' first team squads.

Independent variables

Match exposure.

Main outcome measurements

Head injury incidence and severity.

Results

All time-loss head injuries incidence was 2.1 injuries per 1000 player match hours (95% CI 1.8–2.3) with a mean severity of 4.4 weeks missed (95% CI 3.8–5.0) (median of 3 weeks). Concussion incidence was 1.2 per 1000 hours (95% CI 1.0–1.4) with a mean of 3.4 weeks missed (95% CI 2.7–4.0) (median of 3 weeks). The tackle was associated with 66% of all head injuries (76% of all concussions). Medical attendances for head injuries (55 per 1000 hours; 95% CI 54–57) accounted for 24% of all attendances with a mean of one attendance for a head injury per team per match. The most common head attendances were for lacerations (39% of all head injuries), bruise/haematomas (29%) and neural injuries (including potential concussions; 12%).

Conclusions

Concussions are the most common time-loss head injury in community rugby with players on average adhering to recovery guidelines by resting for three weeks. The tackle is the most commonly associated event. With one attendance per team per match for a head injury, the importance of having pitch side medical staff who are trained to recognise symptoms of concussion is clear.
TO IDENTIFY INTRINSIC RISK FACTORS FOR GROIN/HIP INJURIES AMONG ACADEMY LEVEL RUGBY UNION PLAYERS: A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Authors: Ryan J , McCreesh K , DeBurca N
Published: March 2014

Background

Groin/Hip injuries are among the top 6 most commonly cited injuries in Rugby Union (RU). These injuries have increased significantly since 2002 moving from 16th to 4th place in the most common training injuries in 2012 RU annual audit.

Objective

To identify intrinsic risk factors for groin/hip injuries in an academy level RU population.

Design

Prospective cohort study design. Players were tested pre,mid and end season by primary investigator (PI) with team physiotherapists collecting injury data.

Setting

Testing was carried out in University of Limerick and two Irish RU provincial training grounds.

Participants

43 players were recruited using dissemination of information leaflets and objective discussion. Inclusion criteria: Academy level RU players from 2011/2012 provincial teams, over 18 years of age, fluent in English with written consent. Exclusion criteria: Injured or non-consenting players.

Risk factor assessment

Hip adductor squeeze strength, hip abductor/adductor isometric strength, passive and active internal/external hip rotation ROM, hip abduction ROM, adductor flexibility, groin palpation and quality of single leg squat were examined. Anthropometric data was collected using questionnaires. Team physiotherapists recorded injuries using OSCIS grading system. Hypothesis was formulated prior to testing.

Results

Incidence of groin/hip injuries was 21%. Non-modifiable risk factors identified were previous injury and smaller player height. Modifiable risk factors identified included; lower isometric squeeze strength, reduced dominant leg and bilateral mean adductor flexibility, greater dominant and non-dominant hip internal rotation ROM and positive tenderness of adductor origin musculature.

Conclusions

This study succeeded its objective. This is of significant importance clinically due to high injury incidence leading to missed training/matches and associated costs. Future research should call on the rugby community to implement these identified risk factors in the development of a screening tool for groin/hip injuries and examine its efficiency at reducing the incidence of injury thus taking the next step in groin/hip injury prevention.
LOWER LIMB FUNCTIONAL ASYMMETRIES IN YOUNG SOCCER PLAYERS: DO DIFFERENCES EXIST BETWEEN DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS?
Authors: Sannicandro I , Quarto A , Piccinno A , Cofano G , Rosa RA
Published: March 2014

Background

Functional asymmetries of the lower limbs(FA) have been recognised as a potential source of injury risk of in soccer players;moreover a difference in strength performance between the lower limbs exceeding 15% is considered an injury risk factor. Preventative strategies should be integrated into young football player training regimes.

Table 1.

Young soccer players: mean age 9.1±0.1 years.

n.athletes>15%Total%>15%% othersHop2522711,288,8Triple192278,491,6Side3322714,585,5Table 2.

Young soccer players: mean age 11.2±0.1 years *p>0.05.

n.athletes>15%Total%>15%% othersHop2720013,786,3Triple162008,391,7Side3720018,581,5

Objective

To assess the presence of FA in the lower limbs and evaluate whether the percentage of subjects presenting asymmetries exceeding 15% increases with age.

Design

Cross-sectional studies.

Setting

Youth sports.

Participants

427 young soccer players: 9.1±0.1 years, 36.3±6.5 kg, 137.9±7.1cm (n=227) and 11.2±0.1 yrs, 43.8±9.7 kg, 148.9±9.1 cm (n=200).

Risk factor assessment

Monopodalic jump;all three versions were employed: Single (SI), Triple (TR) and Side hop(SE) is considered a valid indicator of FA in the lower limbs.

Main outcome measurements

Strength in each of the lower limbs was assessed by means of the SI, TR and SE test; the percentage of FA between the lower limbs was calculated using the formula proposed by Yamamoto, 1993: (jump dominant-limb-jump non-dominant limb)/jump dominant-limb*100.

Results

The percentage valuesare summarised in tables 1 and 2.

Conclusions

The highest percentage of subjects presenting asymmetries was detected in the 11yr-olds. Comparing the results for the two age groups revealed a statistically significant difference for the SideHop test.
ARE CLINICAL MEASURES OF CERVICAL FLEXOR ENDURANCE, DIVIDED ATTENTION AND COMPUTERIZED DYNAMIC VISUAL ACUITY DIFFERENT IN ELITE YOUTH ICE HOCKEY PLAYERS WHO REPORT A PREVIOUS HISTORY OF CONCUSSION COMPARED TO THOSE WHO DO NOT?
Authors: Schneider K , Emery CA , Kang J , Meeuwisse W
Published: March 2014

Background

Concussion is a commonly encountered injury. Evaluation of clinical tests at baseline will provide insight on clinical alterations that may persist following concussion.

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate differences in baseline measures of cervical flexor endurance (CFE), walking while talking test (WWTT) and computerized dynamic visual acuity (cDVA) in elite youth ice hockey players who do and do not report a previous history of concussion.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Sport Medicine Clinic (Alberta, Canada).

Participants

Bantam (12–14 years) and Midget (15–17 years) ice hockey players (n=550).

Risk factor assessment

Participants completed a baseline questionnaire, including a question regarding previous history of concussion (yes/no).

Main outcome measurements

Participants completed clinical tests of CFE, WWTT and cDVA at baseline.

Results

Multivariate linear regression, adjusted for cluster, age group and sex was used to estimate mean differences in clinical measurement scores by concussion history (yes/no). Individuals reporting a previous history of concussion were able to hold a test of CFE for a geometric mean time of 0.88 (95% CI; 0.81–0.97) seconds less than those who did not report a previous history of concussion (P=.009). The time to complete WWTT complex compared to self-selected walking speed was a mean of 2.85 (1.09–4,62) seconds slower in midget females with a previous history of concussion. Players reporting a previous concussion had significantly lower cDVA score at 85 degrees/second [cDVAleft=−0.036 logMAR (95%CI: −0.056, −0.016)].

Conclusion

Computerized DVA (85 degrees/second) and CFE were lower in players with a previous history of concussion. The effect of past concussion history on tasks of divided attention depended on age group and sex. These findings allow a further understanding of clinical alterations that may persist following a concussion and identify an area to target in a future clinical trial for prevention.
ARE CLINICAL MEASURES OF CERVICAL SPINE STRENGTH AND CERVICAL FLEXOR ENDURANCE RISK FACTORS FOR CONCUSSION IN ELITE YOUTH ICE HOCKEY PLAYERS?
Authors: Schneider K , Emery CA , Kang J , Meeuwisse W
Published: March 2014

Background

Symptoms of dizziness, neck pain and headaches have previously been identified as risk factors for concussion. Clinical measures associated with these symptoms have not previously been evaluated as risk factors for concussion.

Objectives

To evaluate clinical measures of cervical endurance and strength as risk factors for concussion in elite youth ice hockey players.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Community ice rinks and Sport Medicine Clinic.

Participants

Bantam (12-14 years) and Midget (15–17 years) male and female elite youth ice hockey players (n=466).

Risk factor assessment

Participants completed baseline clinical tests of cervical flexor endurance and cervical spine isometric strength at the beginning of the 2011–2012 season.

Main outcome measurements

Players with a suspected concussion (identified by team therapists) were referred to the study sport medicine physician for assessment (diagnosed as per the 3rdInternational Consensus on Concussion in Sport Guidelines).

Results

Concussion incidence rate ratios were estimated using Poisson regression (adjusted for cluster by team and exposure hours). 466 elite youth ice hockey players completed clinical baseline tests at the start of the 2011–2012 hockey season. Players performing in the lowest 25thpercentile were not at an increased risk of concussion during the season of play [cervical strength right sided IRR=1.33 (95%CI; 0.98–1.83); left IRR=1.07 (95% CI; 0.64–1.78] or cervical flexor endurance [IRR=1.27 (95% CI; 0.74–2.20)].

Conclusion

Clinical tests of cervical flexor endurance and isometric cervical strength were not predictive of concussion risk. Further evaluation of other baseline clinical measures is necessary to inform future development of prevention strategies for concussion in youth.
SHOULDER INJURY PREVENTION IN VOLLEYBALL: PERFORMANCE AND KINEMATICS ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVE SPIKE TECHNIQUES
Authors: Seminati E , Marzari A , Vacondio O , Enrico MA
Published: March 2014

Background

Repetitive stresses during spike movements in volleyball, make the shoulder one of the most commonly exposed body parts, bringing athletes to prematurely interrupt their career.

Objective

Different spike techniques are supposed to be associated to different risk shoulder damage. Here we compared the kinematics of the 2 most diffused spike techniques, also with respect to performance.

Design

Cross sectional-experimental study.

Setting

Subjects were selected from high-level National teams.

Participants

10 female and 11 male (22.4±6.5 years, 1.88±0.07 m, 79.08±9.41 kg).

Interventions

Subjects performed the traditional (TT) and alternative (AT) spike movement technique without jumping, jumping with and without hitting the ball. 3D kinematic of the upper right limb and trunk was recorded with an optoelectronic system. Glenohumeral joint was set as the centre of an imaginary sphere intersected by the distal end of the humerus. In order to obtain intersection angles (azimuth: longitude and elevation: latitude) independently from the overall body's movements, the sphere was considered attached to trunk. Humerus intra-extra rotation was calculated with Eulerian angles. Linear and angular velocities have been measured as well ball speed and jump height.

Main outcome measurements

Humerus trajectory of the 2 techniques travels along significantly different paths on the imaginary sphere.

Results:

Maximal humerus elevation was reduced by 7% in AT, while azimuth was significantly higher, when compared to TT. No difference between TT and AT was found for extra-rotation angles, while intra and extra-rotation angular velocities were significantly higher when adopting the AT.

Conclusions

Our method shows that AT could be potentially a preventive solution to the shoulder chronic pathologies, while maintaining, or even enhancing, athletes' performance. Furthermore it proved to be effective in visualizing the risks associated to different spike manoeuvres, showing in the same 3D space information regarding both humerus angles and velocities.
TIME TO ADD A NEW PRIORITY TARGET FOR CHILD INJURY PREVENTION? THE CASE FOR AN EXCESS BURDEN ASSOCIATED WITH SPORT AND EXERCISE RELATED INJURY
Authors: Wong Shee A , Clapperton A , Finch CF
Published: March 2014

Background

Recent Global Burden of Disease estimates highlight the high burden associated with injury, especially road trauma. However, these estimates, based on the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9/ICD-10), did not specifically identify sports injuries.

Objective

To compare the public health burden of sport and road traffic injury, for children <15 years over a 7-year period in Victoria, Australia.

Design

Analysis of data for non-fatal hospital-treated sports injuries and road traffic injury cases for children aged <15 years in Victoria, Australia over 2004–2010, inclusive. Data included: all Victorian public and private hospitalizations, using ICD-10-Australian modification (ICD-10-AM) activity codes to identify sport-related cases and ICD-10-AM cause and location codes to identify road traffic injuries; injury presentations to 38 Victorian public hospital emergency departments, using a combination of the available activity, cause and location codes.

Main outcome Mmeasurements

Trends in injury frequency were analysed by log-linear Poisson regression. Population-level injury burden was assessed in terms of years lived with disability (YLDs), hospital bed-days and direct hospital costs.

Results

Over the 7-year period, the annual frequency of hospital-treated sports injury increased significantly by 29% (N=7405 to N=9923; P<.001) but the frequency of hospital-treated road traffic injury decreased by 26% (N=1841 to N=1334; P<.001). Sports injury accounted for a larger population health burden than did road traffic injury: 3.0X the number of YLDs (7324.8 vs. 2453.9); 1.9X the number of bed-days (26,233 vs. 13,886); and 2.6X the direct hospital costs ($5·9 m vs. $2.2 m).

Conclusions

The significant 7-year increase in frequency of hospital-treated sports injury and significantly higher injury population-health burden for sports injury, compared with road traffic injury, for children aged <15 years provides additional incentive for prioritising sports injury prevention in this age group.
INJURY PROFILE OF BRAZILIAN ATHLETES IN OLYMPIC GAMES 2012
Authors: Bolling C , Leite M , Neto JG , Barreto H , Tadiello F , Medeiros L , Rodrigues F
Published: March 2014

Background

Athletes performance in Olympic Games depends on health condition. Physiotherapy staff treats injuries, relieves pain and manages symptoms to help athletes to reach the highest performance.

Objetive

To describe injury profile of athletes treated in Physiotherapy department in London Olympic Games 2012.

Design

This is a descriptive epidemiological study about injuries in Olympic Games.

Setting

This study was conducted by Brazilian delegation physiotherapists during the Olympic Games in London 2012.

Participants

All athletes (n=132) treated in physiotherapy department of Brazilian Olympic committee.

Intervention

All brazilian delegation athletes could request for health care in the physiotherapy department. Physiotherapists reported all injuries and interventions in a standard form.

Main outcome measurements

The information collected was: name, gender, modality, number of sessions; related to injuries: location, type, cause, mechanism, symptoms duration. The data analyses was descriptive.

Results

132 athletes (72 men/60 women) were treated in 680 treatment sessions with a mean of 5.15 session/injury. Injuries distribution related to modality was: boxe (13.9%), volleyball (13.9%), basketball (12.2%), handball (11.4%), gymnastics (7,3%), judo (6.5%), athletics (5.7%), swimming (5.7%), sailing (5.7%), others (14.7%). Injuries occurred in lower limbs (55.3%), upper limbs (22.7%), trunk (19,6%), others (2,4%). The tendinopathies (29%) and muscular injuries (31%) were the most common type. Most frequent injury cause was overuse (73%) followed by contact injuries (14%). The majority of injuries had more than 4 months duration (33%), followed by 1–7 days duration (24%) and 8–30 days (12%). According to mechanism, 30% was traumatic injuries.

Conclusion

The high number of overuse, tendinopathies and long term injuries indicate that many athletes arrived injured at Olympic games. Therefore a preventive strategy for chronic conditions should be a priority in Pre-Olympic training.
EXPLORATION OF CONTRALATERAL RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF EXERTIONAL MEDIAL TIBIAL PAIN IN WOMEN
Authors: Verrelst R
Published: March 2014

Background

There is a significant lack of studies looking into the role of contralateral factors in the kinetic chain of subjects predisposed to exertional medial tibial pain (EMTP).

Design

Hip muscle strength and 3D kinematic parameters during a single leg drop jump (SLDJ) were prospectively evaluated.

Setting

Subjects were tested at the beginning of their first academic year and followed throughout one or two years.

Participants

81 healthy female physical education students, were tested at the beginning of their first academic year and followed throughout 1 or 2 years.

Risk factor assessment

Cox regression analysis was used to identify the potential risk factors for the development of EMTP.

Main outcome measurements

It was hypothesized that in a subject predisposed to EMTP, differences in contralateral factors can be determined when compared to subjects not predisposed to EMTP.

Results

After exclusion of subjects with diagnosed bilateral EMTP, 11 subjects were included in the EMTP-group. The leg not at risk for EMTP within EMTP-predisposed subjects was compared with an uninjured leg of the control group. Analysis of the isokinetic data did not reveal altered hip muscle strength parameters for the leg not at risk within EMTP-subjects. However, increased accessory movement in the transverse plane for the contralateral knee during landing phase, was found to be a significant predictor (P=.012) for EMTP.

Conclusions

Impaired DJS or accessory movement was found in the transverse plane of the contralateral lower leg of subjects who developed EMTP, which may speculate that this factor contributed to altered movement patterns within the kinetic chain function of the subjects who developed EMTP. No contralateral decreased isokinetic hip muscle strength was found to be a significant predictor for EMTP in this study.
TEST-RETEST RELIABILITY OF AN ELITE ATHLETE–QUESTIONNAIRE FOR THE EVALUATION OF TRAINING-RELATED INJURY RISK FACTORS
Authors: Wang VC , Ottawa F , Mayer F , Wippert PM
Published: March 2014

Background

Since the 2009 International Olympic Committee consensus statement, health promotion and injury prevention has been of prime importance in the health care of elite athletes. However, to date, most studies investigating injury risk factors of elite athletes have focused on single causes of injury while the elite athletes' injuries are often multi-factorial determined. To get a more comprehensive understanding of the risk factors for injury, two multiple-perspective (medical/ psychosocial/training) questionnaires were developed to assess sport injury risk factors of elite athletes in two countries (Germany and Taiwan).

Objective

To investigate test-retest reliability of an elite athlete questionnaire in two countries before conducting the official survey. This contribution focus on the presentation of the adopted IOC consensus statement tools like the medical Periodical Health Examination (PHE) and the Pre-Participation Evaluation (PPE).

Design

Retrospective and cross-sectional.

Setting

Anonymous participation of national level Olympic sport athletes. The survey consisted of 8 sections assessing Periodical Health Examinations & Pre-Participation Evaluation, Injuries (CIRS), Medical Care, Medical Support Quality, Health Behaviors, Training Environment, Life Events (ILE) and Subjective Stress (PSS).

Participants

63 athletes (35 Germans: 19f, 16m, 21.5±3.5 yrs; 28 Taiwanese: 3f, 25m, 23±2.8 yrs) training background of 2–3hrs/2–3times/week, filled out the questionnaire twice with a one-week interval.

Risk factor assessment

A coding plan was developed. For the PPE and the PHE only numerical-scale data were analyzed by calculating Spearman's Rho tests between 1stand 2ndsets of answers on each question from all participants of same version. Statistical significance was set at ɑ=0.05.

Results

Correlation analyses revealed good reliability levels ranging from r=.72 to r=.98 between the 2 tests.

Conclusions

In general, the questionnaire part assessing PPE and PHE is a reliable instrument to use in German and Taiwanese athletes.
NINE TEST SCREENING BATTERY – INTRA-RATER RELIABILITY AND SCREENING ON ICELANDIC MALE HANDBALL PLAYERS
Authors: Rafnsson ET , Frohm A , Myklebust G , Bahr R , Valdimarsson Ö , Árnason Á
Published: March 2014

Background

Injuries are common in handball, but little is known about their risk factors. One potential screening test to identify player at risk is the Nine Test Screening Battery (NTSB).

Objective

To test the intra-rater reliability of the NTSB and compare the results from NTSB between subgroups in the cohort.

Design

Test-retest design used for the intra-rater reliability test of NTSB. Experimental design used for testing senior and national team players.

Setting

Icelandic male handball players.

Participants

A total of 50 junior players from 5 clubs participated in the intra-rater reliability test. Also, 115 seniorplayers from 13 of 16 teams in the two highest divisions in Iceland and 26 Icelandic national team players (8 playing abroad), participated.

Main outcome of measurement

Intra-rater reliability of NTSB. Difference in NTSB scores between subgroups.

Results

There was a strong intra-rater correlation between the test-retest sessions, ICC: 0.95 T1: 21.6±3.5 (95% CI: 20.7–22.6), T2: 22.0±3.4 (95% CI: 21.0–22.9). The retest had significantly higher total score than the first test (P=.041), indicating some learning effect. No difference was found in total score of NTSB between teams, level of play or different age and height groups. However, goalkeepers had higher total score than other players (P=.001). Observing NTSB separately, junior players had significantly less core stability than senior and national team players (tests 5-7, P≤.006) and more mobility in trunk and shoulders (tests 8-9, P<.001). National team players were stronger in abdominal muscles (test 5, P=.003) and more flexible in active hip flexion (test 4, P=.03) than senior players in division 1 and 2.

Conclusions

NTSB seems to be reliable in test-retest, but some learning effect was noticed. Junior players showed less core stability and more trunk and shoulder mobility than senior players.
THE USE OF WHOLE-BODY CRYOSTIMULATION TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF SLEEP IN ATHLETES DURING HIGH LEVEL STANDARD COMPETITIONS
Authors: Bouzigon R , Ravier G , Dugue B , Grappe F
Published: March 2014

Background

This is a field study realized during basketball preparation tournaments for the European championship 2013 with men and women French team. During these competitions, athletes used Whole-Body Cryostimulation (WBC) exposures to enhance their recovery.

Objective

The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of WBC on the quality of sleep (QS) in athletes during the night following the exposure.

Design

The preparation took place during one week in a training camp followed by three international matches in three days (one per day).

Setting

The study was performed with high standard level athletes men and women of the basketball French teams.

Participants

27 basketball players participated fully in the study (12 females, 11 males, age: 25.8±3.5 years; weight: 88.5±15.7 kg; height: 192.5±11.8 cm).

Risk factor assessment

The WBC treatment was 3-min exposure between −110°C and -150°C in the morning or/and in the evening after a training or match session.

Main outcome measurements

The QS was assessed every day before the exposure with a perceptual scale graduated from 1 “bad sleep” to 5 “restful sleep” adapted from Spiegel's questionnaire. The data were analyzed using paired t-test.

Results

An improvement in the QS was observed in the night following WBC (3.7±0.7vs3.2±0.9, P<.05) compared with what was observed the night without previous WBC.

Conclusions

Athletes experienced better sleep quality after WBC exposure. Even if the night duration was short during this period, they expressed they had a deeper, quieter and less disturbed sleep. The improvement of the QS during both competition and heavy training load periods appears of importance to enhance athletes' recovery. Such situation may lead to 1) a better standing of the training load, 2) less fatigue before the matches and 3) a decrease of the injury risks.
THE CHANGE IN LOWER LIMB KINEMATIC AND EMG ACTIVITY OF SPRINTING AFTER SOCCER-SPECIFIC FATIGUE AMONG FEMALE SOCCER PLAYERS
Authors: Chan CK , Yung SH , Liu MW , Chan KM
Published: March 2014

Background

Hamstring strain during sprinting is one of the dominant injuries among soccer players, which constitutes 12–16% of all injury. Fatigue is claimed to alter the lower limb mechanism during sprinting, which trigger hamstring strain injury.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to find out the changes in electromyography and kinematic profile of the lower limb muscles during sprinting after fatigue among female soccer players, hence, to suggest injury prevention strategies. It is hypothesized that the EMG activity of BF and ST decrease after fatigue.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Kinematic and electromyographic analysis of sprinting before and after soccer-specific fatigue intervention were measured in an indoor setting.

Participants

9 semi-professional female soccer players were recruited from 1stdivision club teams.

Risk factor assessment

Each subject completed the SAFT90 soccer-specific fatigue protocol that simulates the movement pattern of soccer game.

Main outcome measurements

20 metres sprint test were done on each subject before and after the SAFT90. EMG activity of biceps femoris (BF), semitendinosus (ST), rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL) and vastus medialis (VM) and lower limb kinematic in sagittal plane were measured between 10 m–20 m during the sprints.

Results

The sprint time across the pre-test and post-test increased. Significant reduction in stride length and maximum combined hip flexion and knee extension angle were observed in the post-test. The EMG amplitude of BF decreased by 14.3%, and the EMG amplitude of ST increased by 10% in late swing phase across pre-test and post-test.

Conclusions

The reduction in maximum combined hip flexion and knee extension angle indicated that the length of hamstring muscle is shortened after fatigue. The alternation in muscle activation of ST and BF could be a mechanism to reduce the risk of muscle strain of BF during the late swing phase of sprinting after fatigue.
RISK OF INTERVERTEBRAL DISC DAMAGE AFTER PROLONGED SPACE FLIGHT
Authors: Chang D , Sayson JV , Chiang S , Riascos-Castaneda R , Walker K , Lotz JC , Hargens AR
Published: March 2014

Background

Back pain and intervertbral disc (IVD) damage are common problems experienced by astronauts. We hypothesize this is from paraspinal muscle deconditioning, ∼5 cm body lengthening from spinal swelling and straightening, and biochemical tissue changes.

Objective

Examine morphological changes in the lumbar spine induced by spaceflight.

Design

Prospective, case series clinical study.

Setting

We studied crewmembers from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Participants

Recruitment from International Space Station NASA/European Space Agency/Canadian Space Agency crewmembers, starting 2011. We enrolled 8 NASA crewmembers. One crewmember completed the study. The others are in various stages of testing.

Risk factors Assessment

Crew members were studied before and after a ∼180 day mission in the International Space Station.

Main outcome measurements

In pre-flight and post-flight studies of the lumbar spine, evaluate: 1) degenerative changes using MRI, 2) compressibility using an upright MRI backpack loading protocol, 3) spinal kinematics with X-ray videography, 4) visual analog scale pain.

Results

Comparing pre-flight and post- flight data, there were 1) increased lumbar IVD heights in the supine position, 2) increased lumbar IVD compressibility in the upright position, 3) decreased flexibility, and 4) increased low back pain post-flight.

Figure 1

Spinal kinematics (angles in degrees) during flexion/extension. Pre-flight degenerate disks had less motion. Post-flight, all disks had less motion.

Conclusions

The data support the idea that decreased gravitational forces on the IVDs, during prolonged microgravity, increases their water content but decreases proteoglycan. This increases disk degeneration risk on Earth. We have a sample size of one for complete Pre- and Post-Flight testing. It's difficult to make conclusions with this preliminary data. However, the acquired images are very high quality and provide confidence for future tests. The next crewmember returns to Earth for final testing November, 2013. Testing of 4 crewmembers and ongoing recruitment are underway.
THE EFFECTS OF AN INJURY PREVENTION PROGRAM ON LIMB DOMINANCE NEUROMECHANICS
Authors: Cortes N , Greska E , Caswell S , Ambegaonkar J , Onate J
Published: March 2014

Background

Despite numerous injury prevention programs (IPP), the incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in athletics remains high. Few IPP have quantified biomechanical changes in the dominant and non-dominant leg.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of an IPP on lower extremity (LE) biomechanics between dominant and non-dominant limb during an unanticipated sidestep cutting task (USCT).

Design

Quasi-experimental.

Setting

Collegiate soccer players.

Participants

14 athletes (19.1±1.0 years, 1.67±0.05 m, 63.6±6.0 kg) free from any LE injury six months prior to and throughout the study, and with team physician clearance to practice and play participated in the study.

Risk factor assessment

A 3-D motion-capture system quantified LE biomechanics pre and post IPP during an USCT. Participants completed 3 USCT trials bilaterally. The IPP integrated agility and plyometric drills into normal team training during a 10-week off-season period. The IPP emphasized maximum effort and power while maintaining proper body angles and force attenuation during landing, as well as during acceleration and jumping.

Main outcome measurements

Hip (HF) and knee flexion (KF) and abduction angles(°) and moments (Nm/kgm) were measured at initial contact [IC] and peak stance [PS]. Repeated measures ANOVAs assessed the effects of training and leg dominance.

Results

At IC, KF decreased on the dominant side post-IPP (Pre: -26±8, Post: −19±8, p=0.045). Knee adductor moment decreased post-IPP on dominant side (Pre: 0.11±0.11, Post: −0.01±0.10, P=.012), but the non-dominant side increased post-IPP (Pre: 0.04±0.12, Post: 0.09±0.11, P=.012). HF decreased for both sides post-IPP (P=.006), whereas hip flexor moment increased (P=.025). At PS, HF decreased post-IPP (P=.0017) regardless of side. No other differences were noted.

Conclusions

After a 10-week IPP, participants decreased knee and hip flexion angles regardless of limb dominance. Our participants exhibited similar movement patterns between the dominant and non-dominant leg. Our findings also suggest that when IPP drills focus on power and body posture, its effectiveness to alter neuromechanics relative to non-contact ACL injury risk factors remains questionable and warrants further investigation.
PREPARING FOOTBALL REFEREE TO MANAGE CONFLICT
Authors: Dell C , Rhind D , Misia G
Published: March 2014

Background

The number of football referees in the United Kingdom has significantly declined over recent years (The F.A, 2011).

Objective

Previous research has indicate that conflict is an importnat factor in referees leaving the game and impact on their personal health and wellbeing (Dell, Rhind & Gervis, 2013). This study evaluates a training programme which aims to develop referee's ability to manage conflict during matches. It is intended that this research will inform The F.A.'s drive to retain referees.

Design

Mixed methods design with two groups used.

Setting

The aims of the workshop were for the individuals to develop self-awareness of their own referee behaviour; to use conflict management stratergies to help them referee more effectively and to enhance their practical refereeing skills.

Participants

Trainee referees participated in this study; Group A (experimental) and Group B (control). Both genders were represented (Group A M=19 F=1/Group B M=18 F=2) aged from 14->55 years of age.

Intervention

Group A undertook a new specifically designed conflict managment and resolution workshop for referees as part of their basic referee training course. Group B completed the normal training programme.

Main outcome measurements

Both groups completed a pre-workshop questionaire based on their training and how they felt they had dealt with conflict during their 6 training games as a referee. The questionaire employed both likert-type scales and qualitative questions. Upon completion of the training programme both groups completed a post-workshop questionaire.

Results

Results from the post-workshop questionnaires for Group A indicate a significant imporvement in their ability to manage conflict relative to Group B. The significance for Group A in managing conflict was still present 3 months later.

Conclusions

This workshop has had a direct impact on how referees deal with and handle conflict.
POSTURAL STABILITY DURING THE TRANSITION FROM DOUBLE-LEG STANCE TO SINGLE-LEG STANCE IN ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTED SUBJECTS
Authors: Dingenen B , Janssens L , Claes S , Bellemans J , Staes F
Published: March 2014

Background

Despite recent advances in rehabilitation and secondary prevention strategies after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), re-injury rates remain high and long-term outcomes are often disappointing. Deficits in postural stability are shown to be important.

Objective

To evaluate postural stability during the transition from double-leg stance to single-leg stance in ACLR and non-injured control subjects.

Design

Cross-sectional (retrospective).

Setting

Controlled laboratory study.

Participants

20 ACLR subjects (15 females, 5 males), 23.1±13.9 months after ACLR and fully returned to their pre-injury sport, and 20 non-injured control subjects (15 females, 5 males) participated in the study. Both groups were matched for age, gender, weight, height and activity level. All ACL injuries were caused by a non-contact injury mechanism.

Risk factor assessment

A transition task from double-leg stance to single-leg stance with eyes closed was performed while standing on a single force plate. Movement speed was standardized. Both legs of each subject were tested.

Main outcome measurements

Spatiotemporal center of pressure outcomes were compared between groups and between legs within the same group. Significance was set at P<.05.

Results

The ACLR group showed a significant increased postural sway after the new stability point during single-leg stance (P=.005). No significant different postural stability outcomes were found between legs in both groups (P>.05).

Conclusions

Despite the full return to sport, ACLR subjects showed a decreased ability to overcome the postural perturbation created by the transitional movement. These postural stability deficits may leave the lower extremity more vulnerable to ACL re-injury and/or other long-term problems after ACLR. Whether these deficits are a result or a pre-existing risk factor of the initial ACL injury remains unclear. The lack of bilateral differences in the ACLR group may imply that secondary prevention strategies should not only focus on the ACLR leg, but also on the non-ACLR leg.
CARDIOVASCULAR SCREENING IN NCAA ATHLETES: FINDINGS FROM A MULTICENTER ECG-INCLUSIVE PROGRAM
Authors: Asif I , Hadley D , Harmon K , Owens D , Prutkin J , Salerno J , Drezner J
Published: March 2014

Background

The optimal pre-participation screening strategy in competitive athletes is debated.

Objective

To evaluate the accuracy of cardiovascular screening in NCAA athletes using a standardized history, physical exam (PE), and electrocardiogram (ECG).

Design

Prospective multi-center trial.

Setting

Competitive US collegiate athletes from 17 schools.

Participants

3 284 athletes (56% male; 73% Caucasian; 15% African-American; mean age 19.8 years) from 17 sports were screened from July 2012 to October 2013.

Assessment of risk factors

Screening included a standardized history and PE based on recommendations from the American Heart Association (AHA), and a resting 12-lead ECG interpreted using 2013 international consensus standards (Seattle Criteria).

Main outcome measurements

Abnormalities detected by history, PE, and ECG.

Results

1 022 (31.1%) athletes had>1 positive history response with SOB (11.6%%), syncope/near-syncope (11.0%), and exertional chest pain (6.5%) most common. PE was abnormal in 72 (2.2%) athletes. Overall, 123 (3.7%) ECGs were classified as abnormal (67.5% male, 32.5% female). The rate of abnormal ECGs was higher in men compared to women (4.5% vs 2.6%), African-Americans compared to Caucasians (5.3% vs. 3.6%), and most common in basketball players. A total of 133 ECG abnormalities were detected, including Q waves 36.8%, T wave inversion 22.6%, left axis deviation 9.8%, ST depression 7.5%, ventricular pre-excitation 6.8%, PVCs 5.3%, left atrial enlargement 4.5%, right ventricular hypertrophy 3.0%, prolonged QRS 2.3%, and prolonged QTc 1.5%. Eleven (0.3%) potentially lethal cardiac disorders were discovered. All 11 had abnormal ECGs, and only 2 cases had abnormal history or PE.

Conclusions

The current AHA strategy for pre-participation screening generates a high number of false-positive responses in college athletes. ECG screening using modern standards for interpretation provides a low and acceptable rate of abnormal findings and greatly increases the identification of serious cardiac disorders in US collegiate athletes.
FROM CONTENT TO CONTEXT: THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FOOTYFIRST PROGRAM TO PREVENT LOWER LIMB INJURIES IN COMMUNITY AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL
Authors: Donaldson A , Lloyd D , Young W , Barbery G , Cook J , Gabbe B , Finch CF
Published: March 2014

Background

Developing injury prevention programs for community sport is challenging. The injury issues and interventions must be grounded in science and be both meaningful to, and implementable by, those involved in community sport.

Objective

This presentation will detail the multi-stage iterative process used to develop FootyFirst, a community-Australian Football (AF) specific lower limb injury prevention program.

Design

The scientific literature, clinical experience, expert and end-user consultations, community trials, theory-informed discussion, and graphic design and editorial expertise, were combined to develop FootyFirst.

Setting

Community-AF.

Results

Lower limb injuries were identified as the major injury concern and it was established that a combination of balance and control, eccentric hamstring, plyometric and strength exercises could be efficacious in preventing such injuries. The multi-disciplinary research team used evidence from the scientific literature, clinical experience and knowledge of the community-AF context in an iterative process to create and trial the exercises and progressions that were included in the first draft of FootyFirst. This draft was further refined through a Delphi process in which AF-specific lower limb injury prevention experts agreed on the appropriateness of including the proposed exercises in FootyFirst. Potential end-user groups (community-AF players, coaches, fitness coaches, sports trainers and administrators) provided feedback about the fit between FootyFirst and the implementation context including potential barriers and facilitators to widespread program adoption and implementation. Trials of FootyFirst were conducted to ensure it could be understood and delivered by community-AF coaches and completed by players. The research team then reviewed the entire program during discussions focused around the Diffusion of Innovations principles of relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability and observability before expert graphic designers and editors were engaged to develop FootyFirst resources.

Conclusions

The content-to-context process detailed in this presentation was successfully used to develop FootyFirst, an evidence-informed, expert-endorsed, context-specific community-AF lower limb injury prevention program.