Arm stress especially forearm is common. Elbow stress, Shoulder stress - deltoids, trapezius lower fibers. Elbow and forearm stress are usually from improper posture or technique. Iliotibial bands are usually overused with the side-to-side movements.

Cricket: Shoulder alignment is important for throwing/bowling. The pectoral muscles, latissimus dorsi and teres major are often affected. Quadriceps and Hamstrings can become tight from quick starts running to the base-line or fielding.

The demands of racket sports are so that the intensity and duration of a match are never the same. The energy for a game will by and large be made aerobically (with oxygen), but some rallies will require supra-maximal bursts which are anaerobic and will cause a temporary oxygen debt. This eventually results in fatigue, down to the build up of lactic acid in the muscles.

Strength and power, are equally important on the court. The leg and shoulder muscles are involved in lots of concentric and eccentric contractions (acceleration and deceleration of movement). The back and abdominal muscles must be sufficiently conditioned to create and control the dynamic rotatory movements involved in the game. Explosive power is essential for getting to shots and recovering playing position, which deprive your opponent of time and apply the necessary pressure needed to win. Speed around the court relies on developing the correct neuromuscular patterns so that the feet are able to move quickly and effectively.

Potentially the least considered, yet most vital, elements are mobility and flexibility. As well as for prevention of injury and recovery after matches this element if developed sufficiently will improve efficiency of movement and overall performance on court.

The management, manipulation and rehabilitation of the soft tissues of the body are where the sports massage practitioner has an important role to play.

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Email : charlie@ptclinic.ie