Muskuloskeletal Injuries in CrossFit Practitioners: An Integrative Review

Abstract

In recent years, high-intensity training methods like CrossFit® have gained popularity in Brazil's fitness scene. However, these exercises, if done improperly, can lead to musculoskeletal injuries, particularly in the shoulder. This study examines shoulder injuries among CrossFit® enthusiasts through an integrative review. Using databases like Scielo, Lilacs, Medline, PubMed, and Google Scholar, research from August 2021 to June 2022 was reviewed using keywords like Shoulder joint, High-Intensity Interval Training, and Injuries. Articles in Portuguese from the past five years were included, excluding duplicates and those unrelated to the research theme. After applying these criteria, 10 articles were suitable for the review. Findings showed that among CrossFit® practitioners, the shoulder was more prone to injuries than other areas like the lumbar spine, wrist, or knee. The review identified that overloading the shoulder due to intense exercises, especially Olympic weightlifting, and gymnastics, was the primary cause of these injuries.