High performance medical challenges with elite female athletes

Abstract

Managing high performance female athletes poses many unique challenges to medical and allied practitioners whether in the clinic or on tour. With coaches and often the athletes themselves looking for any edge over their competition, young female athletes are often pushed to the edge in search of quicker times and success. But with this search, the training and lifestyle to achieve these goals can sometimes border on obsessive and place the athlete at risk of significant injury and illness, both physical and mental. Whilst male athletes are not immune from such issues, the physiology of the female athlete perhaps places them at greater risk of these issues. It is imperative that the clinician be able to recognize the danger signs and I will discuss previous experiences managing such athletes and how best to tackle often difficult conversations and consultations. I will also emphasize the vital role the multidisciplinary health professional and management team has in managing these athletes and also give advice when it is in the best interests of all involved to consider withdrawing the athlete from competition.