Sports Med
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Alpine ski racing is a popular international winter sport that is complex and challenging from physical, technical, and tactical perspectives. Despite the vast amount of scientific literature focusing on this sport, including topical reviews on physiology, ski-snow friction, and injuries, no review has yet addressed the biomechanics of elite alpine ski racers and which factors influence performance. In World Cup events, winning margins are often mere fractions of a second and biomechanics may well be a determining factor in podium place finishes. ⋯ Effective alpine skiing performance involves the efficient use of potential energy, the ability to minimize ski-snow friction and aerodynamic drag, maintain high velocities, and choose the optimal trajectory. Individual tactics and techniques should also be considered in both training and competition. To achieve better run times, consistency in performance across numerous sections and varied terrains should be emphasized over excellence in individual sections and specific conditions.
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Review Historical Article
Assessment, management and knowledge of sport-related concussion: systematic review.
Sport-related concussions are a subset of mild traumatic brain injuries and are a concern for many sporting activities worldwide. ⋯ Concussion is hard to recognize and diagnose. Initial sideline assessment via the Sports Concussion Assessment Tool 3 (SCAT3), Child-SCAT3 or King-Devick test should be undertaken to identify athletes with concussion as part of a continuum of assessment modalities and athlete management. Sports medicine practitioners should be cognisant of the definition, extent and nature of concussion, and should work with coaches, athletes and trainers to identify and manage concussions. The most common reason for variations in management of concussion is lack of awareness of-and confusion about-the many available published guidelines for concussion. Future research should focus on better systems and tools for recognition, assessment and management of concussion. Sport participants' knowledge of concussion should be evaluated more rigorously, with interventions for sports where there is little knowledge of recognition, assessment and appropriate management of concussion.