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Biomechanical aspects of playing surfaces
1Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Journal of Sports Sciences
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Sport playing surfaces significantly impact athlete injuries. Research shows varied injury rates across different surfaces, highlighting the need for better biomechanical assessment methods to understand surface-induced harm.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Injury Epidemiology
Background:
- Playing surfaces are critical factors in sports injuries.
- Epidemiological data indicate significant differences in injury frequencies across various surfaces.
- Understanding the biomechanical load on athletes is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss biomechanical aspects of playing surfaces.
- To review surface-induced injuries and assessment methodologies.
- To analyze findings from diverse sports regarding playing surfaces.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies on injury frequencies.
- Analysis of methodologies for assessing playing surfaces (material tests, experimental subjects).
- Comparison of findings from different sports and surface types.
Main Results:
- Strong evidence links playing surfaces to injury aetiology.
- Limited correlation exists between material tests and experimental subject tests.
- Standardized material tests often lack validation, requiring cautious interpretation.
- Point elastic surfaces are well-researched; area elastic surfaces are understudied.
- Energy loss on sport surfaces is rarely investigated.
Conclusions:
- Playing surface characteristics are a significant determinant of athlete injury risk.
- Current surface assessment methodologies, particularly material tests, require further validation.
- Further research is needed on area elastic surfaces and energy loss mechanisms.