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Kinematics of spinal motion during prolonged rowing
P J E Holt1, A M J Bull, P M M Cashman
1Musculoskeletal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Charing Cross Hospital Campus, Fulham Palace Road, London, United Kingdom.
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|November 5, 2003
Summary
This study investigated how rowing technique and fatigue affect spinal motion in elite rowers. Prolonged rowing significantly increased spinal motion, potentially contributing to low back pain in athletes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Low back pain is prevalent among rowers.
- Limited research connects rowing technique, force generation, and spinal kinematics.
- Fatigue during prolonged rowing sessions raises concerns for spinal injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and apply a novel technique for measuring spinal and pelvic motion and handle forces during rowing.
- To quantify lumbopelvic kinematics and stroke force profiles in elite rowers.
- To examine the effects of fatigue on rowing biomechanics over a one-hour period.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an electromagnetic motion system and strain gauge load cell to measure spinal/pelvic motion and handle forces.
- Investigated 13 elite oarsmen during a one-hour rowing ergometer session.
- Sampled rowing stroke profiles at regular intervals to assess changes over time.
Main Results:
- Quantified lumbar spine and pelvic motion in relation to stroke force profiles.
- Observed marked increases in spinal motion during the one-hour rowing piece.
- Established a baseline for understanding fatigue-induced biomechanical changes in rowers.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged rowing leads to significant increases in spinal motion.
- The developed technique effectively captures biomechanical changes during endurance rowing.
- Further research is needed to determine the direct link between increased spinal motion and low back pain in rowers.