Investigating joint position sense in Maltese competitive swimmers

Abstract

Abstract: Swimming is a very technical sport and is comprised of repetitive movements which results in overuse injuries. Poor technique and posture can cause injuries in the cervical spine that might lead to poor joint position sense (JPS). The aim of this study was to collect data regarding the participants’ training lifestyle and investigate any relationship with cervical JPS. This was done with the purpose of addressing prevention and rehabilitation to meet such findings. A questionnaire was drawn up in order to collect personal data and data relative to the training lifestyle of competitive swimmers. A physical evaluation was performed to measure height and weight for each participant, followed by a protocol validated by Roren, Mayoux-Benhamou et al. (2009) to measure the joint position error (JPE). Statistical package for the social science (SPSS) was then used to generate results. A significant association was found between JPE in certain directions and four of the categories investigated; these categories being age, type of training, other sporting activities performed and BMI. These categories were further investigated where the significant correlation between the groups within the category was recorded. Physiotherapy intervention would be essential to prevent injuries from occurring, this would be done by setting up appropriate training programmes while maintaining a good posture and biomechanics throughout.