Evaluation of the biogeometric profile of the musculoskeletal system in arm wrestlers

Abstract

The required level of complexity of the arm wrestlers’ competitive activities demands high requirements for the functional state of the spine. Irrational approach to the training process without taking into account the biogeometric profile prevents the improvement of physical qualities, which leads to a violation of the training cycle, reduced athletic performance and efficiency. One of the most important conditions for postural disorders in athletes is the relative muscle weakness in some parts of the musculoskeletal system, the manifestations of which occur as a result of heavy training loads. The aim of the study was to assess the biogeometric profile of the musculoskeletal system in arm wrestlers. Posture examinations have been performed in the frontal and sagittal planes according to the REEDCO posture scale. The rounded shoulder index has been calculated as a percentage of the ratio of shoulder width to the shoulder arch. Measurement of the depth of physiological curves of the spine has been performed according to the method of Z.P. Kovalkova. Two groups of arm wrestlers have been examined: Gr. 1 comprised of 16 athletes aged 18 to 24, Gr. 2 included 14 athletes aged 25 to 32. According to the REEDCO posture scale for arm athletes, Gr. 2 revealed more significant changes in posture. When calculating the rounded shoulder index, similar changes have been observed. That is, physical activity of large amount and intensity in arm wrestling leads to existing changes in the biogeometric profile of athletes. More reduction of the curvature of the spine in the cervical and lumbar regions according to the method of Z.P. Kovalkova has been observed in a group of arm wrestlers aged 25 to 32 years. According to the data obtained, in course of time arm wrestlers have more significant changes in posture, which, in our opinion, is a consequence of physical activity of large amount and intensity without taking into account the changes in the biogeometric profile of athletes. Thus, the study confirms that it is necessary to integrate correctional and preventive program aimed at treating impaired biogeometric profile, in the training process of arm wrestlers.