Sensor-based technologies for motion analysis in sports injuries: a scoping review

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics
• Wearable Technology

Background:

• Motion analysis is vital for athlete health and sports injury assessment.
• Sensor-based technology offers objective data for evaluating athletic performance and injury risk.
• This review focuses on the application of sensors in sports motion analysis for injury evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and analyze the use of various sensors in motion analysis for sports injury assessment.
• To provide an analytical overview of current sensor-based techniques in sports medicine.
• To identify research gaps and opportunities for innovation in sensor-based sports injury analysis.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science in February 2024.
• Keywords included "sport", "athlete", "sensor-based technology", "motion analysis", and "injury".
• Studies were selected based on Participants, Concept, Context (PCC) criteria, with data on sensor types, processing, injuries, and applications extracted.

Main Results:

• Forty-two studies met the inclusion criteria for the review.
• Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors were the most prevalent for motion data collection.
• Knee injuries and joint sprains were the most studied, with sensor fusion gaining traction for rehabilitation.

Conclusions:

• Sensor-based motion analysis is a developing field with significant potential in sports medicine.
• Research gaps exist in advanced processing integration, real-world applicability, and adaptive sports.
• Future work should focus on bridging these gaps for more effective and personalized sports health solutions.