SKIPP FROM HEAD TO TOES: SPORTS KINESIOLOGY, INJURY PREVENTION AND PERFORMANCE - CONCUSSION TO ACHILLES INJURY BIOMECHANICS

Abstract

Understanding injury mechanisms and risk factors, and introducing interventions to reduce inappropriate forces, are key to being a successful sports injury biomechanist. Monitoring rugby players’ head impacts with triaxial accelerometers in behind-the-ear patches and instrumented mouthguards has shown that the size and frequency of impacts in rugby were greater than most other sports. Assessment of lower limb stiffness in elite triathletes has shown the association with Achilles tendon injury risk.Visual feedback training in rowers has changed biomechanics and reducedinjury risk. Monitoring load in gymnastics is important to reduce injury risk. Translation of SKIPP knowledge into SportSmart and its derivative programmes has provided practical information for coaches and athletes, helped change attitudes and behaviours towards injury prevention and reduce injuries.