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A study investigating the impact of the ‘rehabilitation-training integration’ intervention strategy on elite weightlifters with chronic low back pain returning to competitive sports

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a 16-week integrated rehabilitation-training intervention for an elite female weightlifter with chronic low back pain (CLBP), focusing on optimizing biomechanical and clinical synergy to address pain-performance conflicts and restore her competitive capacity. METHODS: A case-study framework was employed with a structured three-phase protocol: pain modulation, neuromuscular re-education, and sport-specific loading. Multidimensional assessments were conducted throughout the intervention, including the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Functional Movement Screen (FMS), Y-Balance Test (YBT), joint range of motion (ROM), isokinetic strength testing, and sport-specific performance metrics. Dynamic periodization was applied to ensure progressive adaptation, with an emphasis on core stability, strength symmetry, and kinetic chain efficiency. RESULTS: indicated substantial improvements: VAS scores reduced by 76 % (from 7.8 to 1.9), FMS scores increased by 28.6 % (from 14 to 19), YBT asymmetry normalized to <8 %, hip flexion symmetry restored to within 5°, and hip extension torque improved by 22.3 % (from 218 N to 266 N). The athlete returned to competition, surpassing her pre-injury total lift by 7 kg and winning a national championship. CONCLUSION: The rehabilitation-training integration strategy, combining biomechanical correction and neuromuscular optimization, effectively addressed the athlete's CLBP. By focusing on core stability, restoring strength symmetry, and improving movement patterns, the intervention facilitated pain reduction, tissue healing, and sport-specific performance restoration. This approach provides a validated framework for managing chronic injuries in strength sports, offering valuable insights for rehabilitation and performance enhancement in elite athletes.

Source: Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2025.09.022

Authors: Peng Liu, Qi Yan

Institution: China Institute of Sport Science

Language: English

Topic: Musculoskeletal pain and rehabilitation

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,070