Musculoskeletal injuries in women aerial acrobatics sports

BackgroundDespite the growing popularity of aerial sports, limited research has investigated musculoskeletal (MSK) injury incidence among female acrobatic athletes. Understanding injury prevalence is essential for implementing effective prevention strategies.ObjectiveTo investigate demographic characteristics, physical activity (PA) levels, and MSK injury occurrence in female aerial acrobatics athletes in the western region of Saudi Arabia.MethodsSixty female aerial acrobatics athletes (mean age: 28.66years) participated. We assessed PA using International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form, and data on MSK injury history and sport-specific profiles were collected. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests examined correlations between injury occurrence and factors such as age, experience, and type of aerial activity.ResultsMost participants (60%) reported high PA levels. The majority (92%) performed warm-ups and cool-downs routines and mainly exercised under supervision. The current injury prevalence was 20%, with 12 participants reporting ongoing injuries. Common injury sites included the back 8(28.6%), knee 7(25%), and wrist 6(21.4%).ConclusionMusculoskeletal injury prevalence among participants was 20%, reporting a current injury related to aerial acrobatics sports. This study revealed low MSK injury rates and high PA levels among female aerial acrobatics athletes, primarily characterized by limited experience. To promote injury prevention, further research is needed with a larger sample and a focus on factors influencing injury frequency such as age, acrobatics type, and upper body strength. In addition, developing a reliable assessment tool designed for aerial acrobatics athletes' performance is recommended.