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Sirsasana (headstand) technique alters head/neck loading: Considerations for safety
Rachel Hector1, Jody L Jensen1
1Department of Kinesiology & Health Education, University of Texas at Austin, 2109 San Jacinto Blvd D3700, UT Mail Code: D3700, Austin, TX 78712-1415, USA.
Background:
This study examined the weight-bearing responsibility of the head and neck at moments of peak force during three headstand techniques.
Methods:
Three matched groups of 15 each (18-60 years old) were formed based upon lower limb entry/exit technique: symmetrical extended, symmetrical flexed, and asymmetrical flexed. All 45 practitioners performed 3 headstands. Kinematics and kinetics were analyzed to locate peak forces acting on the head, loading rate, center of pressure (COP) and cervical alignment.
Findings:
During entry, symmetrical extended leg position trended towards the lowest loads as compared to asymmetrical or symmetrical flexed legs (Cohen's d = 0.53 and 0.39 respectively). Also, symmetrical extended condition produced slower loading rates and more neutral cervical conditions during loading.
Interpretation:
Subjects loaded the head with maximums of 40-48% of total body weight. The data support the conclusion that entering the posture with straight legs together may reduce the load and the rate of change of that load.
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