Abstract
IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to assess the effects of loading on the deformation of the vertebral body of the lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5), which are subjected to considerable stress in field hockey players. MethodsRelevant geometric variables measured by magnetic resonance imaging were compared between two groups of field hockey players. A total of 24 male field hockey players were enrolled in the study. The study participants were assigned to one of two groups, based on their experience with playing hockey: under 5 years, junior group; over 5 years, senior group.Several geometric variables relevant to physical activity-specific stress were measured: lumbar body index, compression deformity ratio, biconcave deformity ratio, and anterior wedge deformity ratio. ResultsThe results indicated a significant difference between the two groups with respect to the compression deformity ratio at three levels (L1, L2, and L4), and to the Lumbar body Index at two levels (L1, L2). DiscussionOur data suggest that the mechanical loading on lower spine plays an important role in the development of degenerative changes of the vertebral body, which may be considered a risk factor for future injury and low back pain in hockey players.
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