Injury Occurrence and Localization in Tennis: Perspectives on Prevention and Physiotherapy

Abstract

Injuries happens in sports involving human movement, with the heightened demands of the sport often correlating with increased injury risk. Tennis, in particular, presents notable challenges as the repetitive motions involved can lead to muscle imbalances and varying levels of strain across different parts of the body. In this narrative literature review, we included 66 studies with the aim of providing a comprehensive overview of tennis-related injuries and offering insights into physiotherapy interventions for prevention and recovery. The first part of our review is on the most prevalent tennis injuries and their anatomical localization. It is noteworthy that injuries predominantly occur during matches rather than in training sessions. These injuries span a wide range, encompassing both acute and chronic conditions, affecting various parts of the body. Notably, muscle-tendon injuries are common, with frequent occurrences in areas such as the thigh, ankle, knee, and shoulder. Furthermore, it is observed that men suffer from back injuries compared to women. In the subsequent section, we delve into specific body regions and their associated injuries in greater detail. Our analysis leads to the recommendation that tennis players should engage with physiotherapists early in their sports careers for injury recovery and mainly for prevention measures. Collaboration with physiotherapists can significantly mitigate the risk of injuries and enhance overall performance and longevity in the sport.