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Abstract

Topics in Exercise Science and Kinesiology Volume 5: Issue 1, Article 10, 2024.

Achilles tendon rupture risk appears to be higher in women's artistic gymnastics compared to other collegiate sports, however little is understood about personal, training, and performance factors potentially associated with this elevated risk. Previous research has only examined gymnasts who have sustained Achilles tendon ruptures while in an NCAA environment. The overall incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures among gymnasts has not been assessed. This study aims to identify injury factors, Achilles rupture incidence and training habits related to Achilles tendon ruptures in current and former women’s artistic gymnastics. A cross-sectional study design was performed using current and former competitive women’s artistic gymnasts aged 18-40 years were recruited via snowball sampling to voluntarily complete an anonymous online survey. Information was collected about participant demographics, past Achilles injury, injury prevention strategies, and training habits. In this study, there was an increased incidence of reported Achilles tendon ruptures over the past fifteen years. Female competitive gymnasts were more likely to report an Achilles tendon rupture if they performed difficult skills, engaged in plyometric exercises 2-3 days/week, tumbled on the floor 2-3 days/week, and did not get their ankles taped consistently before activity. Most Achilles tendon ruptures happened during the competitive season, floor exercise, and the back tumbling punch. Clinicians working with gymnastics should consider implementing a way to monitor time spent performing difficult skills and plyometric exercise load to recognize gymnasts who may need prophylactic intervention or strategies to mitigate the risk of Achilles tendon rupture.

KEY WORDS: ATHLETICS, TENDON INJURY, GYMNASTICS TRAINING

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