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Dizziness in discus throwers is related to motion sickness generated while spinning
P Perrin1, C Perrot, D Deviterne
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital, Nancy, France,
Acta Oto-Laryngologica
|July 14, 2000
Summary
Discus throwers experience dizziness due to specific movements causing disorientation, unlike hammer throwers. This study reveals differences in throwing techniques, not individual sensitivity, explain the varied susceptibility to dizziness in athletes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Discus and hammer throwing involve rotational movements.
- Discus throwers report dizziness, while hammer throwers do not.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the cause of dizziness in discus throwers.
- Compare throwing techniques to understand susceptibility differences.
- Determine if dizziness is due to athlete sensitivity or sport-specific mechanics.
Main Methods:
- Interviewed 22 high-level discus and hammer throwers.
- Analyzed slow-motion video recordings of both throwing disciplines.
- Examined visual referential, head movements, and plantar support during throws.
Main Results:
- 59% of athletes reported dizziness during discus throwing, none during hammer throwing.
- Individual susceptibility was ruled out as athletes practiced both sports.
- Hammer throwing allows easier visual stabilization; discus throwing involves greater loss of plantar afferents and Coriolis-inducing head movements.
Conclusions:
- Differences in the execution of discus and hammer throwing explain dizziness.
- Specific biomechanical and visual factors in discus throwing induce motion sickness.
- Technique, not inherent sensitivity, is the key factor for dizziness in rotational sports.