Mechanical Determinants of Sprinting and Change of Direction in Elite Female Field Hockey Players.

Profile determination in field hockey is critical to determining athletes' physical strengths and weaknesses, and is key in planning, programming, and monitoring training. This study pursued two primary objectives: (i) to provide descriptive data on sprinting, deceleration, and change of direction (COD) abilities and (ii) to elucidate the mechanical variables that influence sprint and COD performance in elite female field hockey players. Using radar and time-gate technology, we assessed performance and mechanical data from 30 m sprinting, deceleration, and COD tests for 26 elite female hockey players. A machine learning approach identified mechanical variables related to sprint and COD performance. Our findings offer a framework for athlete categorization and the design of performance-enhancing training strategies at the international level. Two pivotal mechanical variables-relative maximum horizontal force (F0) and maximum velocity (Vmax)-predominantly influence the times across all tested distances. However, the force-velocity profile (FVP) and horizontal deceleration do not influence the variance in the COD test outcomes. These insights can guide the design, adjustment, and monitoring of training programs, assisting coaches in decision making to optimize performance and mitigate injury risks for female hockey players.

Análisis del rendimiento físico en jugadores de hockey sobre césped sub 14 / Analysis of physical performance in u14 field hockey players / Análise do desempenho físico em jogadores de hóquei em campo sub-14

El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar el rendimiento físico de jugadores sub 14, durante los partidos del Torneo Nacional de Asociaciones 2019, disputado en la Provincia de Córdoba, Argentina. Se monitorearon cinco encuentros (tres de fase de grupo; uno, semi final y uno, final). La muestra fue de 50 casos monitorizados por unidades GPS (PlayerTek Plus), divididos por posición: Defensores Centrales (n = 2), Defensores Laterales (n = 5), Volantes (n = 4) y Delanteros (n = 6). Las variables analizadas fueron divididas en dos, por un lado, las variables de volumen y, por otro, las de intensidad. Las primeras fueron: Distancia Total (m) 4718 ± 0,95; Distancia en Sprint (entre 16 a 19 km/h) (m) 484,67 ± 268,28; Cantidad de Sprints (>19 km/h) (rep) 17,70 ± 9,67; Aceleraciones >2 m/s2 (rep) 32,28 ± 13,39 y Desaceleraciones >-2 m/s2 (rep) 44,47 ± 17,08. En cambio, las variables de intensidad fueron: Metros por minuto (m) 101,18 ± 13,52; Distancia en Sprint por Minuto (m) 10,35 ± 5,96; Cantidad de Sprint por Minuto (rep) 0,37 ± 0,22. En conclusión, se consideró que analizar objetivamente, el rendimiento físico de los jóvenes jugadores es de vital importancia ya que podríamos establecer planes estratégicos para mejorar su performance, como también, bajar la incidencia lesiva.

The objective of this study was to determine the physical performance of U14 players, during the matches of the 2019 National Association Tournament, played in the Province of Córdoba, Argentina. 5 matches were monitored (3 group phase, 1 semi-final and 1 final). The sample consisted of 50 cases monitored by GPS units (PlayerTek Plus), divided by position: Central Defenders (n = 2), Side Defenders (n = 5), Midfielders (n = 4) and Forwards (n = 6). The analyzed variables were divided into 2: the volume variables and the intensity variables. The first ones were: Total Distance (m) 4718 ± 0.95; Sprint distance (between 16 to 19 km/h) (m) 484.67 ± 268.28; Number of Sprints (> 19 km/h) (rep) 17.70 ± 9.67; Accelerations> 2 m/s2 (rep) 32.28 ± 13.39 and Decelerations> -2 m/s2 (rep) 44.47 ± 17.08. Instead, the intensity variables were Meters per minute (m) 101.18 ± 13.52; Distance in Sprint per minute (m) 10.35 ± 5.96; and Amount of Sprint per minute (rep) 0.37 ± 0.22. In conclusion, it was considered that objectively analyzing the physical performance of young players is of vital importance, since we could establish strategic plans to improve their performance, as well as lower the incidence of injury.

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o desempenho físico de jogadores menores de 14 anos, durante as partidas do Torneio de Associações Nacionais 2019, disputadas na Província de Córdoba, Argentina. Foram monitorizados 5 jogos (3 fases de grupos, 1 semifinal e 1 final). A amostra foi composta por 50 casos monitorados por GPS (PlayerTek Plus), divididos por posição: Defensores Centrais (n=2), Defensores Laterais (n=5), Meio-campistas (n=4) e Atacantes (n=6). As variáveis analisadas foram divididas em 2, de um lado as variáveis de volume e, de outro, as variáveis de intensidade. As primeiras foram: Distância Total (m) 4718 ± 0,95; Distância em Sprint (entre 16 a 19 km/h) (m) 484,67 ± 268,28; Número de Sprints (>19 km/h) (rep) 17,70 ± 9,67; Aceleração >2 m/s2 (rep) 32,28 ± 13,39 e desacelerações >-2 m/s2 (rep) 44,47 ± 17,08. Em vez disso, as variáveis de intensidade foram: Metros por minuto (m) 101,18 ± 13,52; Distância em Sprint por Minuto (m) 10,35 ± 5,96; Quantidade de Sprint por Minuto (rep) 0,37 ± 0,22. Em conclusão, considerou-se que analisar objetivamente o desempenho físico de jovens jogadores é de vital importância, pois podemos estabelecer planos estratégicos para melhorar seu desempenho, bem como diminuir a incidência de lesões.

Evaluación del consumo proteico y su percepción en deportistas de waterpolo y hockey subacuático del Club Regatas de Santa Fe / Evaluation of protein consumption and its perception in water polo and underwater hockey athletes from Regatas Club, Santa Fe

Los deportes acuáticos como waterpolo y hockey subacuático (HS) presentan momentos alternantes de alta y baja intensidad, por lo que resulta imprescindible la adecuada alimentación y preparación física. Se ha demostrado la importancia de la nutrición sobre el bienestar físico; permitiendo el crecimiento, la reparación y adaptación, luego del ejercicio, influyendo sobre el rendimiento deportivo. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar el consumo proteico y su percepción en deportistas de waterpolo y hockey subacuático del club Regatas de la ciudad de Santa Fe en 2019. Se utilizó registro alimentario (3 días discontinuos), coincidentes con días de entrenamiento. Se realizaron entrevistas para determinar la percepción del consumo proteico. El consumo proteico promedio en jugadores de waterpolo fue excesivo respecto a su requerimiento. La mitad de los deportistas de HS relevaron consumo promedio insuficiente de proteínas con respecto a su requerimiento diario. Los alimentos fuente de proteínas predominantes seleccionados en ambos grupos, fueron carnes, leche/yogur, queso, huevo y legumbres. Al contrastar el consumo proteico según el requerimiento diario no se encontró diferencias significativas entre las dos disciplinas. En cuanto a la percepción el consumo proteico, en ambos grupos subestimaron la ingesta de proteínas respecto al valor real de consumo. Los waterpolistas presentan un consumo excesivo de proteínas respecto a su requerimiento; mientras que en los practicantes de HS resultó ser variado. Respecto a la percepción sobre el consumo proteico, la ingesta es subestimada en ambas disciplinas. El Licenciado en Nutrición debe orientar hacia estrategias correctas adecuadas al contexto nutricional deportivo(AU).

Effects of a high-intensity interval training program on body composition and physical fitness in female field hockey players / Efectos de un programa de entrenamiento intervalado de alta intensidad sobre la composición corporal y condición física en jugadoras de hockey césped

SUMMARY: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is zed by achieving similar effects to conventional physical and physiological training in a shorter time, allowing its dissemination in the sports field. The present study was aimed to analyze the effects of a HIIT program on body composition and general and specific physical fitness in Chilean female field hockey players. Experimental, repeated measures, simple blind, parallel groups, and a quantitative approach were used. The participants were randomized, and distributed into a control group (CG; n= 10) that maintained regular field hockey training and an experimental group (EG; n= 10) that also received complementary training with HIIT. Body composition (muscle mass and adipose mass), general physical fitness (jump performance with countermovement jump [CMJ] and maximum oxygen consumption [VO2max] were evaluated with the test Course-Navette), and specific physical fitness (pushing speed, dribbling speed, and shooting accuracy) were assessed with established protocols. Pre- and post-intervention comparisons were made with Student's t and Wilcoxon tests, considering p<0.05. The main results indicate that the EG presented a significant increase in muscle mass (p = 0.024; d = 0.62), CMJ (p = 0.005; d = 1.10), VO2max (p = 0.001; d = 1.58) and a significant reduction in adipose mass (p = 0.023; d = 0.36) and time in pushing speed (p = 0.028; d = 0.79). The CG did not present significant changes in any of the variables analyzed, and no significant differences were reported between the groups. In conclusion, eight weeks of HIIT significantly increases muscle mass, jump performance, and VO2max and significantly reduces adipose mass and time in pushing speed in Chilean female field hockey players.

RESUMEN: El entrenamiento intervalado de alta intensidad (EIAI) se caracteriza por conseguir en un menor tiempo efec- tos similares al entrenamiento convencional a nivel físico y fisiológico, lo que ha permitido su difusión en el ámbito deportivo. El objetivo del presente estudio fue analizar los efectos de un programa de EIAI sobre la composición corporal, condición física general y específica en mujeres chilenas que practican hockey césped. Estudio experimental, de medidas repetidas, simple ciego, grupos paralelos y enfoque cuantitativo. Las participantes fueron aleatorizadas y distribuidas en grupo control (GC; n=10) que mantuvo los entrenamientos regulares de hockey césped y grupo experimental (GE; n=10) que además recibió de complemento EIAI. Se evaluó la composición corporal (masa muscular y masa adiposa), condición física general (capacidad de salto con el salto contra movimiento [CMJ] y consumo máximo de oxígeno [VO2máx] con la prueba Course de Navette) y condición física específica (velocidad de empuje, velocidad de dribling y precisión de tiro) con protocolos establecidos. Se realizaron comparaciones pre y post intervención con las pruebas t de Student y Wilcoxon, considerando un p<0,05. Los principales resultados indican que el GE presentó un aumento significativo de la masa muscular (p=0,024; d=0,62), CMJ (p=0,005; d=1,10), VO2máx (p=0,001; d=1,58) y, una reducción significativa, de la masa adiposa (p=0,023; d=0,36) y del tiempo en la velocidad de empuje (p=0,028; d=0,79). El GC no presentó cambios significativos en ninguna de las variables analizadas, mientras que no se reportaron diferencias significativas entre los grupos. En conclusión, ocho semanas de EIAI aumentan significativamente la masa muscular, capacidad de salto y VO2máx, además de reducir significativamente la masa adiposa y el tiempo en la velocidad de empuje en mujeres chilenas que practican hockey césped.

Ulnar-Sided Wrist Pain in the Athlete: Sport-Specific Demands, Clinical Presentation, and Management Options.

ABSTRACT: Ulnar-sided wrist injuries are common in sports that require repeated pronosupination, wrist radial/ulnar deviation, axial loading, and gripping equipment. Common anatomic structures affected include the triangular fibrocartilage complex, extensor carpi ulnaris tendon, distal radioulnar and ulnocarpal joints, and hamate bone. Presenting symptoms include pain with activity, swelling, possible snapping or clicking, and reproduction of symptoms with provocative maneuvers. Imaging may confirm or rule out pathologies, but abnormal findings also may present in asymptomatic athletes. Initial treatment is usually nonoperative with splinting, load management, activity modification, strengthening the components of the kinetic chain of the particular sport, and pain management. Surgery is usually indicated in ulnar-wrist pain pathology such as hook of hamate fractures and required in associated instability. Future research should address specific treatment and rehabilitation protocols, emphasizing the complete kinetic chain along with the injured wrist.

Mouthguard use and attitudes regarding dental trauma among elite cross-country mountain biking and field hockey athletes.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Cross-country mountain biking and field hockey are two Olympic sports that pose a potential risk for dentofacial trauma. However, mouthguard use is not mandatory in either of these sports and knowledge about tooth rescue among athletes is often neglected. The aim of this cross-sectional epidemiological survey was to evaluate the prevalence of sports-related dentofacial injuries, mouthguard use, and attitudes regarding tooth rescue among cross-country mountain biking and field hockey athletes participating at pre-Olympic competitions held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A convenience sample of 217 athletes from 33 countries participating in cross-country mountain biking (n = 82; mean age = 30.96 ± 8.52 years) and field hockey (n = 135; mean age = 19.72 ± 2.46 years) pre-Olympic competitions were examined clinically, and they answered a questionnaire regarding previous history of sports-related dentofacial injuries, attitudes toward mouthguard use, and tooth rescue. RESULTS: There were 120 (55.30%) males and 97 (44.70%) females who participated in the study. The prevalence of facial trauma was higher in mountain biking (54.88%) than in field hockey (26.66%, P < .001). Fracture was the most prevalent facial injury in mountain biking (80%), while laceration was the most prevalent in field hockey (30.55%). Extensive dental injuries occurred more often in mountain biking (47.37%) than in hockey (12.50%). The teeth most often affected were the maxillary central incisors in both mountain biking (57.89%) and field hockey (93.75%). Mouthguard use was more frequent among field hockey athletes (41.48%) than in mountain biking (1.22%, P < .001). The overall knowledge about tooth rescue was low, and most of the athletes in both sports did not know what to do in case of an avulsed tooth. CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of dentofacial injuries among XCO-MTB and field hockey athletes participating at this pre-Olympic event was high. The majority of the athletes in this study did not use mouthguards and were unaware of recommendations in the case of an avulsed tooth.

Incidencia de lesiones en un equipo femenino de Primera División de hockey sobre césped. San Isidro Club / Incidence of injuries in a women's First Division field hockey team. San Isidro Club

El análisis del costo fisiológico y del gasto calórico del Hockey lo han colocado en la categoría de "ejercicio intenso", exponiendo a los jugadores a constantes situaciones con un potencial de lesión muy alto. El objetivo del siguiente artículo fue describir la incidencia, frecuencia, cantidad por puesto, contexto, severidad, severidad por puesto, topografía y puesto, y, por último, segmento y tipo de lesión sufridas en jugadoras femeninas de 1° división entre los años 2018 y 2019. La incidencia fue de 28,6 cada 1000hs, o bien 0,45 cada 1000hs/jugadora. El momento del año con mayores lesiones fue el mes de septiembre, la posición con mayor incidencia fueron las mediocampistas, el mecanismo de la lesión con mayor riesgo fueron las que no tuvieron contacto, por último, las lesiones más frecuentes fueron las musculares. Futuros estudios deberán analizar de forma prospectiva la situación, estableciendo y considerando un mayor tamaño muestral del club (por ejemplo, a otras 1° divisiones del Club), a la Asociación de Hockey de Buenos Aires y de los seleccionados nacionales, para obtener mejor información y correlacionar la misma. Estableciendo parámetros epidemiológicos para conocer la realidad de nuestros clubes respecto a los otros, tanto a nivel nacional como internacional.

El peroné: mal alumno, pero buen profesor. (¿Qué tiene prioridad biológica: la integridad, o la supervivencia?) / Fibula: a bad pupil but a good profesor. (What comes first, integrity or survival?)

La concepción original del mecanostato como un regulador de la rigidez estructural ósea orientado a mantener un determinado 'factor de seguridad' en todos los esqueletos parece no corresponder por igual a cualquier hueso y para cualquier tipo de estímulo. Hemos descubierto que la estructura cortical diafisaria del peroné humano manifiesta un comportamiento ambiguo del sistema, referido al uso del pie. La diáfisis peronea, además de ser insensible al desuso, se rigidiza, como sería de esperar, por entrenamientos en disciplinas deportivas que rotan o revierten el pie (hockey, fútbol, rugby); pero, llamativamente, se flexibiliza en su mitad proximal por entrenamiento en carrera larga, que optimiza el rendimiento del salto que acompaña a cada paso. La referida rigidización robustecería la región peronea de inserción de los músculos que rotan o revierten el pie, favoreciendo la locomoción sobre terrenos irregulares o 'gambeteando', propia de especies predadoras como los leopardos. La 'inesperada' flexibilización proximal, pese a reducir la resistencia a la fractura por flexión lateral (poco frecuente en el hombre), favorecería la absorción elástica de la energía contráctil de la musculatura inserta, optimizando el rendimiento del salto al correr, condición vital para especies presas como las gacelas. La falta de analogía de estas respuestas de la estructura peronea a distintos entrenamientos, incompatible con el mantenimiento de un factor de seguridad, sugiere su vinculación preferencial con la optimización de aptitudes esqueléticas con valor selectivo. Esto ampliaría el espectro regulatorio del mecanostato a propiedades esqueléticas 'vitales', más allá del control de la integridad ósea. Su manifestación en el hombre, ajena a connotaciones selectivas (quizá resultante del mantenimiento de genes ancestrales), permitiría proponer la indicación de ejercicios orientados en direcciones preferenciales a este respecto, especialmente cuando estas coincidieran con las de las fuerzas que podrían fracturar al hueso. (AU)

The original notion of the mechanostat as a regulator of bone structural rigidity oriented to maintain a certain 'safety factor' in all skeletons does not seem to correspond equally to every bone and for any type of stimulus. We have discovered that the diaphyseal cortical structure of the human fibula shows an ambiguous behavior of the system, with reference to the use of the foot. The peroneal shaft, in addition to being insensitive to disuse, becomes stiffened, as might be expected, by training in sport disciplines that involve rotating or reversing the foot (hockey, soccer, rugby); but, remarkably, it becomes more flexible in its proximal half by long-distance running training, which optimizes the performance of the jump that accompanies each step. The stiffening would strengthen the peroneal region of insertion of the muscles that rotate or reverse the foot, favoring locomotion on uneven terrain or 'dribbling', typical of predatory species such as leopards. The 'unexpected' proximal flexibilization, despite reducing the resistance to lateral flexion fracture (rare in human), would favor the elastic absorption of contractile energy from the inserted muscles, optimizing jumping performance when running, a vital condition for prey species such as gazelles. The lack of analogy of these responses of the peroneal structure to different training, incompatible with the maintenance of a safety factor, suggests its preferential link with the optimization of skeletal aptitudes with selective value. This would expand the regulatory spectrum of the mechanostat to 'vital' skeletal properties, beyond the control of bone integrity. Its manifestation in humans, oblivious to selective connotations (perhaps resulting from the maintenance of ancestral genes), would make it possible to propose the indication of exercises oriented in preferential directions, especially when they coincide with the direction of the forces that could fracture the bone. (AU)

Two steps for scoring a point: Creating and converting opportunities in invasion team sports.

In invasion team sports, scoring efficiency depends on the ability to create scoring opportunities and to convert them into goals or points. Scoring performance varies across sports and comparisons among them are little. In this paper we compare creation and conversion of scoring opportunities in different team sports and genders. Box-score data from six sports [basketball, handball, water polo, field hockey, football, ice hockey] (328 teams, 5723 games, both genders) were standardized by "per ball possession". We applied Bayesian methods to compute the posterior distributions of shots per possession (SHTpPOS), points per shot (PTSpSHT) and points per possession (PTSpPOS). We evaluated differences for these three variables among sports, between genders and the correlation between every pair of them. Inter-sports evaluation evidenced basketball, handball, ice hockey and water polo are sports with a high probability of creating shots (SHTpPOS-p(robability) > 0.65). Complementary, ice hockey, field hockey and football are sports with a low probability of converting shots (PTSpSHT-0.05 < p < 0.26). Despite the distinct results among sports for creating and converting opportunities, all sports in both genders, converged to a scoring efficiency (PTSpPOS) below 0.5. In the genders' comparison, men are more efficient in creating opportunities than women, except in water polo. For scoring efficiency, differences between men and women are fewer. Results prevent generalization about differences in scoring efficiency between genders. Finally, creation and conversion have low correlation in sports with high shot creation probabilities (basketball and ice hockey). In these sports, scoring is not limited by the number of shots taken but rather by their accuracy. For sports with low shot creation probabilities (soccer and men field hockey), creation and conversion presented higher correlation. Evidences contribute to increase coaches' understanding about scoring tactics' challenges in team sports and design practices accordingly.

Efecto de la práctica mental y física en el desempeño motor y actividad eléctrica muscular en estudiantes sanos / Effect of mental and physical practice in the motor performance and muscle electrical activity in healthy students

Resumen El objetivo del presente estudio fue analizar la efectividad de la práctica mental (PM), práctica física (PF) y su combinación (PC) en el desempeño de- la destreza de dribbling de hockey de salón y la actividad eléctrica del músculo (AEM) braquiorradial del antebrazo dominante. Un total de 27 estudiantes universitarios de primer año de la carrera en Ciencias del Movimiento Humano, sin experiencia previa en la destreza, fueron asignados aleatoriamente a uno de tres grupos (PF, PM y PC). El desempeño de la destreza fue evaluado por medio del tiempo total, utilizando fotoceldas SmartspeedPro y la AEM se midió con un electromiograma Noraxon M400. La investigación se desarrolló en dos sesiones. En la primera sesión, se realizó el pretest, la práctica experimental según el grupo correspondiente y el post test del desempeño y AEM. En la segunda sesión, una semana después, se evaluó el desempeño en una prueba de retención. Al aplicar un análisis de varianza (ANOVA) de dos vías mixto [grupo (3) x medición (3)] se encontró que el desempeño de los tres grupos mejoró significativamente en la prueba de adquisición y retención. El ANOVA de dos vías mixto [grupo (3) x medición (2)] indicó que no hubo diferencias significativas en la AEM. La PF, PM y PC favorecieron el aprendizaje de la destreza; sin embargo, no se encontraron cambios en la actividad eléctrica del músculo braquiorradial del antebrazo dominante.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of mental practice (MP), physical practice (PP), and their combination (CP) in the performance of the dribbling skill in field hockey, and the brachioradialis muscle electrical activity (MEA) of the dominant forearm. A total of 27 freshmen enrolled in the Human Movement Science program with no experience in the skill was randomly assigned to one of the three groups (MP, PP, and CP). Skill performance was assessed by total time using Smartspeed Pro photocells, while MEA was tested with an electromyogram using Noraxon M400. Research was conducted in two sessions. In the first session, the pretest, experimental practice by group, post test, and MEA were conducted. In the second session, held a week later, a retention test was conducted. After a two-way mixed ANOVA [group (3) x measurement (3)], the acquisition and retention test performance improved significantly in the three groups. The two-way mixed ANOVA [group (3) x measurement (2)] showed no significant differences in MEA. PP, MP, and CP enhanced skill learning; however, no significant changes were found in the brachioradialis muscle electrical activity of the dominant forearm.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar a efetividade da prática mental (PM), prática física (PF) e sua combinação (PC) no desempenho da destreza de dribbling de hóquei de salão e a atividade elétrica do músculo (AEM) braquiorradial do antebraço dominante. Um total de 27 estudantes universitários do primeiro ano do curso de Ciências do Movimento Humano, sem experiência prévia na destreza, foram atribuídos aleatoriamente a um de três grupos (PF, PM e PC). O desempenho da destreza foi avaliado por meio do tempo total, utilizando fotocélulas SmartspeedPro e a AEM foi medida com um eletromiógrafo Noraxon M400. A pesquisa foi realizada em duas sessões. Na primeira sessão, foram feitos o pré-teste, a prática experimental de acordo com o grupo correspondente e o pós-teste do desempenho e da AEM. Na segunda sessão, uma semana despois, foi avaliado o desempenho em um teste de retenção. Ao ser aplicada uma análise de variância (ANOVA) mista de duas vias [grupo (3) x medição (3)], observou-se que o desempenho dos três grupos melhorou significativamente no teste de aquisição e retenção. A ANOVA mista de duas vias [grupo (3) x medição (2)] mostrou que não houve diferencias significativas na AEM. A PF, PM e PC favoreceram a aprendizagem da destreza; não obstante, não foram encontradas alterações na atividade elétrica do músculo braquiorradial do antebraço dominante.

Prevalence of dentofacial injuries in contact sports players: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUNDS/AIMS: Contact sports present intense physical contact, and usually, players have a high risk for dentofacial injuries. It is unclear how often these injuries occur and which contact sports present the highest rates. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of dentofacial injuries among contact sports participants. METHODS: A literature search was performed in seven electronic databases (Embase, LILACS, LIVIVO, PubMed, Scopus, SportDiscus, and Web of Science). The gray literature (Google Scholar, OpenGrey, and ProQuest), as well as the reference lists of included studies, was assessed. Experts were consulted to indicate additional studies. The eligible studies were observational studies that contained details of the contact sports participants who were aged over 18 years old, either professional or not, who sustained at least one dentofacial injury in the past, the number of sustained injuries, and studies which provided quantitative data on the characteristics of the dentofacial injuries, such as type and site. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data. RESULTS: Among 1152 identified studies, 17 articles remained for final analysis. One study was classified as high risk of bias, 14 studies as moderate, and two as low risk. The overall prevalence of dentofacial injuries was 27.57% (95% CI: 17.87-38.47). The prevalence in each sport was rugby 37.36% (95% CI: 17.45-59.82), basketball 27.26% (95% CI: 9.45-50.08), handball 24.59% (95% CI: 14.88-35.83), and field hockey 19.07% (95% CI: 6.82-35.62). The most common injury was dental injury 19.61% (95% CI: 8.13-34.56). CONCLUSION: The overall prevalence of dentofacial injuries among collective contact sports participants was approximately 30%. The most common injury presented was dental injury.

Quantifying acromiohumeral distance in elite male field hockey players compared to a non-athletic population.

BACKGROUND: Shoulders of elite field hockey players are loaded continuously during play. Frequent high shoulder loading is known to influence certain shoulder variables, such as acromiohumeral distance. However, the influence of elite field hockey play on acromiohumeral distance is not examined yet. OBJECTIVE: To examine the acromiohumeral distance in elite male field hockey players compared to a non-athletic control group. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. METHODS: Fifty male participants were included; 25 elite field hockey players (age: 24.0±2.72 years; weight: 77.2±5.29kg; height; 180.5±5.37cm) and 25 age- and gender matched non-athletes (23.0±2.29 years; weight: 75.7±9.53kg; height: 181.8±5.52cm). A Telemed-Colormaster-128 EXT-IZ device was used to bilaterally obtain ultrasound acromiohumeral distance images at 3 different angles of shoulder abduction in the frontal plane. RESULTS: Field hockey players showed a bilateral larger acromiohumeral distance at 45° (mean difference: 1.46mm [95% CI 0.46; 2.46]; p=0.005) and 60° (mean difference: 1.07mm [95% CI 0.21; 1.93]; p=0.016) compared to controls. In both groups, a significant but clinically less relevant, side difference was established for the acromiohumeral distance at 60° (mean difference: 0.79mm [95% CI 0.21; 1.34]; p=0.009). CONCLUSION: With active shoulder abduction, elite field hockey players show a larger acromiohumeral distance in comparison to non-athletic participants. This may be a protective sport-specific adaptation, to better guard the shoulder from injury. Thus, acromiohumeral distance measurement may help physical therapists/coaches decide which athletes could benefit from specific, additional exercises aimed at enlarging the subacromial space.

Cardiac remodeling indicators in adolescent athletes.

OBJECTIVE:: The idea that different sports and physical training type results in different cardiac adaptations has been widely accepted. However, this remodelling process among different sport modalities is still not fully understood. Thus, the current study aims to investigate the heart morphology variation associated with a set of different modalities characterized by distinct models of preparation and different methods and demands of training and completion. METHOD:: The sample comprises 42 basketball players, 73 roller hockey players, 28 judo athletes and 21 swimmers. Anthropometry was assessed by a single and experienced anthropometrist and the same technician performed the echocardiographic exams. Analysis of variance was used to study age, body size and echocardiograph parameters as well as different sport athlete's comparison. RESULTS:: Basketball players are taller (F=23.448; p<0.001; ES-r=0.553), heavier (F=6.702; p<0.001; ES-r=0.334) and have a greater body surface area (F=11.896; p<0.001; ES-r=0.427). Basketball and hockey players have larger left auricle diameters compared with judo athletes (F=3.865; p=0.011; ES-r=0.316). Interventricular end-diastolic septal thickness (F=7.287; p<0.001; ES-r=0.347) and left ventricular posterior wall thickness (F=8.038; p<0.001; ES-r=0.362) of the judokas are smaller compared to the mean values of other sports participants. In addition, relative left parietal ventricular wall thickness is lower among swimmers compared with judokas (F=4.127; p=0.008; ES-r=0.268). CONCLUSION:: The major contributors to changes in heart morphology are for the most part associated with sport-specific training and competition and the specific dynamics and adaptive mechanisms imposed by each sport.

Cardiac remodeling indicators in adolescent athletes / Indicadores de remodelagem cardíaca em atletas adolescentes

Summary Objective: The idea that different sports and physical training type results in different cardiac adaptations has been widely accepted. However, this remodelling process among different sport modalities is still not fully understood. Thus, the current study aims to investigate the heart morphology variation associated with a set of different modalities characterized by distinct models of preparation and different methods and demands of training and completion. Method: The sample comprises 42 basketball players, 73 roller hockey players, 28 judo athletes and 21 swimmers. Anthropometry was assessed by a single and experienced anthropometrist and the same technician performed the echocardiographic exams. Analysis of variance was used to study age, body size and echocardiograph parameters as well as different sport athlete's comparison. Results: Basketball players are taller (F=23.448; p<0.001; ES-r=0.553), heavier (F=6.702; p<0.001; ES-r=0.334) and have a greater body surface area (F=11.896; p<0.001; ES-r=0.427). Basketball and hockey players have larger left auricle diameters compared with judo athletes (F=3.865; p=0.011; ES-r=0.316). Interventricular end-diastolic septal thickness (F=7.287; p<0.001; ES-r=0.347) and left ventricular posterior wall thickness (F=8.038; p<0.001; ES-r=0.362) of the judokas are smaller compared to the mean values of other sports participants. In addition, relative left parietal ventricular wall thickness is lower among swimmers compared with judokas (F=4.127; p=0.008; ES-r=0.268). Conclusion: The major contributors to changes in heart morphology are for the most part associated with sport-specific training and competition and the specific dynamics and adaptive mechanisms imposed by each sport.

Resumo Objetivo: Os efeitos decorrentes da prática de diferentes modalidades desportivas resultam em padrões divergentes de adaptação cardíaca. A presente pesquisa procura estudar a variação da morfologia do coração associada a um conjunto de modalidades desportivas distintas quanto à natureza do esforço e aos modelos de preparação, incluindo metodologias de treino e sistemas de competição. Método: Foram estudados 42 basquetebolistas, 73 hoquistas, 28 judocas e 21 nadadores. A antropometria foi avaliada por um único e experiente antropometrista e os exames ecocardiográficos foram realizados pelo mesmo operador. Recorreu-se à análise da variância para estudar a variação associada a idade, medidas de tamanho corporal e parâmetros ecocardiográficos, bem como para a comparação entre os atletas de diferentes modalidades desportivas. Resultados: Os basquetebolistas são os atletas mais altos (F=23,448; p<0,001; ES-r=0,553), mais pesados (F=6,702; p<0,001; ES-r=0,334), com maior superfície corporal (F=11,896; p<0,001; ES-r=0,427) e, com os hoquistas, apresentam um diâmetro da aurícula esquerda superior ao dos judocas (F=3,865; p=0,011; ES-r=0,316). A espessura telediastólica do septo interventricular (F=7,287; p<0,001; ES-r=0,347) e da parede posterior do ventrículo esquerdo (F=8,038; p<0,001; ES-r=0,362) dos judocas é inferior à dos outros atletas, mesmo quando controlado para o tamanho corporal. Os nadadores apresentam uma espessura parietal relativa do ventrículo esquerdo superior à dos judocas (F=4,127; p=0,008; ES-r=0,268). Conclusão: As diferentes fontes de variação da morfologia cardíaca prendem-se com as dinâmicas do processo de treino, competição e correspondentemente com os mecanismos adaptativos, sobrepondo-se ao processo de formação desportiva a longo prazo.

Attitudes and Counseling Practices of Pediatricians Regarding Youth Sports Participation and Concussion Risks.

OBJECTIVE: To examine attitudes and practices of pediatricians toward sports-related head trauma and youth participation in tackle football and ice hockey. STUDY DESIGN: A respondent-anonymous electronic survey was distributed 3 times to members of the American Academy of Pediatrics Section of Bioethics, Council on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention, and Council on Sports Medicine and Fitness. RESULTS: Of 791 eligible pediatricians, 227 (29%) responded. Most respondents (189/223; 85%) treat sports-related concussions, among whom 83% (137/165) reported access to an established return-to-play protocol within their practice. Virtually all (160/166; 96%) reported increased parental awareness/concern regarding concussions and 85% (139/163) reported increased visits for head trauma. Overall, 77% (140/183) would not allow their son to play tackle football and 35% (64/181) and 34% (63/184) would not allow their son or daughter, respectively, to participate in ice hockey. Most respondents endorsed limiting or eliminating tackling (143/176; 81%) and checking (144/179; 80%) from practice. Respondents were evenly divided in their support for counseling against youth participation in full-contact sports, with 48% in favor (87/180). CONCLUSIONS: Most respondents would not allow their own child to play tackle football and endorsed limiting or eliminating tackling in practice. The American Academy of Pediatrics should consider recommending restrictions on tackling in football to support the current concussion concerns of its members.

Physical Maturity and Concussion Symptom Duration among Adolescent Ice Hockey Players.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between physical maturity and risk of prolonged concussion symptoms in adolescent ice hockey players. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort study of 145 patients ages 13-18 years with concussion referred to 3 hospital-affiliated sports medicine clinics between September 1, 2012 and March 31, 2015. Concussion evaluations included Post Concussive Symptom Score, neurologic examination, and postinjury computerized neurocognitive testing. Pubertal development at initial visit was assessed by the Pubertal Developmental Scale. Duration of concussion symptoms (days) was the main outcome. Statistical comparisons were conducted using Student t test, Wilcoxon rank sum, and logistic regression. RESULTS: Mean symptom duration was 44.5 ± 48.7 days. Nearly one-half (48.3%) of all players enrolled had prolonged concussion symptoms (≥ 28 days); most (86.9%) had symptom resolution by 90 days. Among males, less physically mature adolescents took longer to recover than more physically mature players (54.5 days vs 33.4 days; P = .004). "Early" Pubertal Category Score was the strongest predictor of prolonged symptoms (OR = 4.29, 95% CI 1.24-14.85; P = .021) among males. Among females, heavier weight increased the odds of experiencing prolonged symptoms (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.00-1.14; P = .039). CONCLUSIONS: Among adolescent ice hockey players, early-pubertal stage is independently associated with longer recovery from concussion in males, and heavier weight is associated with longer concussion recovery in females. Until further studies determine valid physical maturity indicators, peripubertal collision sport athletes should compete in leagues grouped by relative age and be discouraged from "playing up" on varsity teams.

Protein carbonyl levels correlate with performance in elite field hockey players.

Excess and incorrectly selected exercise can degrade athletic performance from an imbalance in redox homeostasis and oxidative stress, but well-planned training and nutrition can improve antioxidant capacity. The aim of the study was to investigate how nutrient intake could influence oxidative stress and cell lesion biomarkers after 5 days of training followed by a game. Blood was collected from 10 athletes at the start of training (basal), after training (pre-game), and postgame. Their acceleration capacity also was measured pre- and postgame. Blood analysis showed an increase in lactate concentration postgame (13%) and total antioxidant capacity increased both pre-game (13.1%) and postgame (12.7%), all in comparison with basal levels. An oxidative stress marker, protein carbonyl (PC), increased 3-fold over the course of the game, which correlated with a decreased acceleration (r = 0.749). For biomarkers of tissue damage, creatine kinase and aspartate transaminase (AST) increased postgame by 150% and 75%, respectively. The AST variation had a high negative correlation with energy and carbohydrate consumption and a moderate correlation with lipid and vitamin C intake. Protein intake had a positive but moderate correlation with reduced glutathione. The observed correlations suggest that nutritional monitoring can improve exercise physiological homeostasis and that PC serves as a good biomarker for oxidative stress and performance loss.

Postconcussion symptoms are associated with cerebral cortical thickness in healthy collegiate and preparatory school ice hockey players.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the degree to which concussion history and postconcussive symptoms are associated with cortical morphology among male hockey players. STUDY DESIGN: Male subjects (n = 29), ranging in age from 14 to 23 years (mean 17.8 years), were recruited from preparatory school and collegiate ice hockey teams and underwent neuroimaging and baseline Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) testing. Cerebral cortical thickness was regressed against ImPACT Total Symptom Score (TSS), concussion history, as well as baseline measures of psychopathology. Reconstruction of surfaces and cortical thickness analysis were conducted with FreeSurfer (version 5.3.0). RESULTS: ImPACT TSS was inversely associated with local cortical thickness in widespread brain areas. Associations were revealed in a host of frontal as well as bilateral temporoparietal cortices. Conversely, concussion history was not associated with cortical thickness. An "Age by Concussion History" interaction was associated with thickness in the right ventrolateral and right parietal cortices. Post-hoc analysis revealed that concussed participants did not exhibit age-related cortical thinning in these regions. CONCLUSION: We have identified an association between brain structure and postconcussive symptoms among young, otherwise-healthy male athletes. Postconcussive symptoms and related reductions in cortical thickness may be tied to participation in a full-contact sport that involves frequent blows to the head.

Validation of a helmet-based system to measure head impact biomechanics in ice hockey.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to quantify differences between head acceleration measured by a helmet-based accelerometer system for ice hockey and an anthropometric test device (ATD) to validate the system's use in measuring on-ice head impacts. METHODS: A Hybrid III 50th percentile male ATD head and neck was fit with a helmet instrumented with the Head Impact Telemetry (HIT) System for hockey and impacted at various speeds and directions with different interfaces between the head and helmet. Error between the helmet-based and reference peak accelerations was quantified, and the influence of impact direction and helmet-head interface was evaluated. Regression equations were used to reduce error. System-reported impact direction was validated. RESULTS: Nineteen percent of impacts were removed from the data set by the HIT System processing algorithm and were not eligible for analysis. Errors in peak acceleration between the system and ATD varied from 18% to 31% and from 35% to 64% for linear and rotational acceleration, respectively, but were reduced via regression equations. The relationship between HIT System and reference acceleration varied by direction (P < 0.001) and head-helmet interface (P = 0.005). Errors in impact azimuth were approximately 4%, 10%, and 31% for side, back, and oblique back impacts, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first comprehensive evaluation of peak head acceleration measured by the HIT System for hockey. The HIT System processing algorithm removed 19% of the impacts from the data set, the correlation between HIT System and reference peak resultant acceleration was strong and varied by head surface and impact direction, and the system error was larger than reported for the 6-degree-of-freedom HIT System for football but could be reduced via calibration factors. These findings must be considered when interpreting on-ice data.