%0 Journal Article
%T Perceptions of low back pain in elite gymnastics: A multi-disciplinary qualitative focus group study.
%A Fawcett L
%A Heneghan NR
%A James S
%A Rushton A
%J Phys Ther Sport
%V 44
%N 0
%D Jul 2020
%M 32375075
%F 2.92
%R 10.1016/j.ptsp.2020.04.003
%X <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>To explore the multidisciplinary team experience of Low Back Pain (LBP) in elite gymnastics.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>A qualitative focus group.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>British Gymnastics.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>Ten coaching, sports science and medicine multidisciplinary team members working with British gymnasts.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>A topic guide informed by literature/expert opinion enabled discussion that was recorded/transcribed verbatim. Initial inductive analytic process developed theoretical insights. Manual coding using constant comparative methods categorised meaningful themes and sub-themes.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Two key aspects were identified. Emerging themes for LBP presentation included: early identification LBP and influence of multidisciplinary team members on outcomes; factors influencing LBP reporting e.g. coach-athlete relationship; frequent presentations of LBP and accepted norms; athlete history and physical examination e.g. training load. Emerging themes for causation of LBP included: intrinsic risk factors e.g. growth and maturation; extrinsic risk factors e.g. equipment.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Individual responses of a gymnast to experiencing LBP were important across all themes. Some LBP was perceived as normal. The coach-athlete relationship and support team are crucial decision-makers around training load and adaptation. Early detection will help minimise time loss from training/performance to expedite healing.