A Review of Lumbar Spine Kinematics During Field Hockey Drag Flick Stroke

In field hockey, the drag flick stroke is mainly used during penalty corner for scoring opportunities. This review article investigates the biomechanics involved in the drag flick and its implications on injury risk.

Key elements analyzed include trunk flexion-extension, axial and lateral rotation, inter-lumbar rotational motion, and lower limb mechanics during the preparatory, execution, and follow-through phases of the drag flick. A review of literature indicates the occurrence of greater lumbar flexion, coupled flexion-rotation, and higher shear forces during the drag flick when compared with the hit stroke during penalty corners.

Technical features described among Indian players-such as deeper lunges, prolonged drag phases, increased forward trunk inclination, and rapid pelvic-trunk rotation-may further accentuate these loading patterns, potentially leading to a greater injury risk.

The cumulative exposure to end-range lumbar movements under high rotational velocities may predispose drag flick specialists to overuse injuries of the lumbar spine and hip. The paper highlights the need for technique refinement, structured conditioning, and workload regulation to support performance while minimizing injury risk.