Effects of a 90-minute wrestling training on the selected features of the shape of spine and pelvis under load

Abstract

Background & Study Aim: The ability to transfer vertical load is conditioned, among others, by the symmetry of the spine in the frontal plane and by the optimal values of angles of physiological curvatures in the sagittal plane. The repeatability and intensity of exercise in modern competitive sports require a great deal of “resilience” of the skeletal system, each discipline having a substantial, specific impact on the load-bearing functions of the skeleton. Sports training can result in the development of disorders associated with excessive load, especially concerning young organisms. The aim of the present study is the impact of the 90-minute wrestling workout on some selected features of the shape of the spine and pelvis under the conditions of increased load for reasons of health of young female wrestlers.

Material & Methods: The examinations were carried out in February 2012 among 30 female wrestlers from the Polish National Wrestling Team (mean ± SD, age: 16,8±1,21 years; body height: 163±5,77 cm; body mass: 54,1±9,28 kg). The method was based on assessing angle values and lengths of the spine in three planes, and on evaluating the pelvis in the frontal and transverse planes. The examination was carried out before and after a specialist training. Evaluation of the selected spinal features was carried out using a test stand for computer analysis of body posture (Posturometer M).

Results: High and medium statistically significant changes occurred among the examined population of female wrestlers as an effect of axial load on the sagittal plane. Insignificant changes were found in the frontal and transverse planes. Very significant changes were observed in the inclination angle in the lumbosacral region (Alpha), the total of partial angles (Delta), the total length of the spine (DCK), the length (DKP), height (RKP) and depth (GKP) of thoracic kyphosis as well as the angle (KLL) and height (RLL) of lumbar lordosis.

Conclusions: Training regimes in base training for female wrestlers should incorporate correction of deficits in ranges of motion in hip and shoulder joints, strength endurance of hip extensor muscles and the muscles of upper thoracic part of body trunk. Wrestling training for female wrestlers should focus more on preventing back pain and stimulating a general endurance of the body.