Sports Injuries in Gymnasts

The Gymnastics World Championships have been dominating our screens over the last week, with participants of unmatched elegance and precision. Gymnasts have a special way of looking effortless to a spectator, but as we can all appreciate takes arduous hours of work and comes with a high risk of injury.

Our clinicians at GHG have a wealth of experience rehabilitating gymnasts, including those at the start of their training, during their teenage years. This blog’s focus is going to be on stress fractures.

Stress Fractures

 This is a type of overuse injury that occurs due to muscle fatigue which renders the bone unable to absorb the shock of repeated impact. In terms of gymnasts, the typical stress fracture drivers are the landings, tumbling and significant weight bearing manoeuvres. Commons sites for stress fractures include the tibia (shins), the little bones of the feet (metatarsals) and the lumbar spine (lower back).

 Symptoms of a stress fracture may include localised pain and tenderness at the fracture site which is like a dull ache. This can be diagnosed with a physical examination – which is GHG clinician’s most useful tool. However, as is best practice (which is exactly what we provide) there is a in depth discussion of the athlete’s case history and relevant imaging such as MRIs or in a more chronic picture, X-rays.

The primary treatment for any fractures, is usually rest as most stress fractures will heal themselves. Progressively there is build-up of how much weight bearing activity athletes can engage in. Alongside this, exercises to improve range of motion of the joints (helping retain flexibility) and balance-based exercises will help improve stability and reduce future injury risk.

Whilst Sports and Exercise Medicine is the mainstay of GHG service provisions, we also understand the wider lifestyle commitments that follow alongside competitive sport. Our tailored nutrition services can help engage in discussions that aid recovery. Simple things like ensuring adequate calcium intake, vitamin D and getting the recommended daily calories (ideally from high protein sources) is vital. Your GHG professional is also available to discuss your recovery pathway with relevant members of athletes’ wider team.

Every stress fracture is unique, and the timeline can vary, our talking therapy services are there to support your mental wellbeing throughout what can be a worrying time. However, it’s crucial to remember that the rehabilitation process can’t be rushed. Through regular follow-ups, following the prescribed exercise plans, adequate rest and open lines of communication with your Goodall Healthcare Group professionals are key to a successful recovery.