Musculoskeletal injuries in female pole sport athletes: Prevalence, risk factors and impact

Abstract

Pole sport has gained increased popularity in recent years. Due to the sport's specific movements and stresses, injuries sustained by athletes often differ in frequency and nature compared to other sports. This study investigated the prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries, risk factors and injury-types sustained by female recreational pole sport athletes. An online survey was conducted in five pole studios in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The questionnaire sought information on demographics, training history, musculoskeletal injuries and risk factors, impact of injury on performance as well as quality of life and management approaches sought. The data were analysed using univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses as appropriate. Fifty-nine adult female athletes participated in this study. A lifetime injury prevalence of 49.2% (n=29) and a 12-month period prevalence of 40.7% (n=24) were reported. The most reported location of injuries was the shoulder (64.3%, n=18) with muscle strain type injuries (48.1%, n=14) being the most common type. Significant risk factors included high skill level (p=0.005), increased strength (p=0.010), warm-ups longer than 10-minutes (p=0.053) and performing static stretching cool-downs (p=0.005). The impact of injuries on quality of life was significant, particularly affecting the athletes’ ability to perform daily activities and decreasing sleep. Self-medication and home remedies were most utilised. Musculoskeletal injuries are largely prevalent in pole sport athletes, with varied impact on performance and quality of life. The uniqueness of this sport provides an interesting platform for new research, particularly with regards to prevention and treatment approaches.