Postural Malalignment Due to Helmet Usage in Cricket Players – An Observational Study

Background: Elite cricket players experience increased injury risk due to physical changes occurring during adolescence. Accurate postural assessment is crucial for early identification and prevention of musculoskeletal issues. Aim: To analyze biomechanical postural deviations in elite cricket players using a photographic method. Methodology: Sixty male cricket players (mean age: 26.5 ± 3.40 years) were recruited as the population. Craniovertebral angle, trunk angle, lumbar angle, Swayback angle, sagittal shoulder-C7 angle, coronal head tilt, sagittal head tilt, coronal shoulder angle, posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) level, and horizontal alignment of scapula were measured using an MB-Ruler. Reflective markers were placed on bony landmarks, and angular measurements were obtained by taking photographs in three planes, namely, sagittal, frontal, and anteroposterior. Results: The photographic analysis revealed significant deviations from ideal posture in all measured angles, including increased craniovertebral, trunk, lumbar, Swayback, sagittal shoulder-C7, sagittal head tilt, coronal head tilt, PSIS, and scapula alignment angles ( P < 0.001). Conclusion: Elite cricket players in the selected age group exhibited significant postural malalignments. These deviations may increase injury risk and in turn reduce play time and performance. Preventive and corrective measures are necessary to address these issues.