Postural evaluation and risk of musculoskeletal injuries in professional male rugby players: a proof-of-principle study

Abstract

Background: Posture in ideal balance allows the maximum effectiveness of a gesture in absence of pain. Rugby is a sport characterized by muscle-tendon structures injuries due to trauma and an adequate posture might have a role in their prevention. Aim of this proof-of-principle study was to investigate if sports activity might cause postural changes in National League rugby players and whether it correlates with an increased risk of injuries. Methods: Male rugby players from a National League were included in the study. The athletes underwent a postural questionnaire, an analysis of plantar support (3D-PodoScanalyzer) and a postural-evaluation (Formetric4D). The tests were performed at T0 (on-season), T1 (off-season) and T2 (pre-season). Results: Twenty-six male rugby players, mean aged 22.5 years old, were included. The analysis of plantar support showed statistically significant variability in 6 values: left Arch index (p=0.004), right Staheli index (p=0.042), midfoot symmetry (p=0.030), isthmus symmetry (p=0.048), arch length symmetry (p=0.027), height of the left plantar arch (p=0.009). The postural analysis showed statistically significant variability in only two values: rotation of the pelvis (p=0.013) and kyphotic angle (p=0.050). Conclusions: Taken together, our findings data describe a cavity in the left foot during the intense stages of the championship in which injuries to the left lower limb also prevail. The study also shows that the training conducted by the athletes examined improves the pelvic rotation and kyphotic angle values.

Effects of Occlusal Splints on Spinal Posture in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review

“…A correct posture is particularly associated with health status and any alteration of this posture could lead to pain and dysfunction of the craniocervical system [60][61][62]. As treatment of TMD, occlusal splint might be effective in muscle relaxation, reducing hyperactivity of the masticatory muscles [63].…”

Sports-related musculoskeletal injuries: From diagnostics to rehabilitation

“…In this scenario, prevention strategies include neuromuscular training programs, consisting of balance, coordination, strength, and agility exercises, and education of the athletes to avoid overtraining and high-risk maneuvers as rapid cutting and landing techniques [7]. Prevention rehabilitative approaches and training methods are still evolving, utilizing measurement and technologies investigating neuromuscular control, timing of muscle activation, postural and kinematic analysis of sport gesture to prevent the potential musculoskeletal injuries [8][9][10].…”