VCOM Louisiana Research Day Program Book 2024

Clinical Research

Audrey Bourdages, OMS-II; Stephanie Aldret, DO VCOM-Louisiana 30 EVALUATION OF PELVIC STABILITY IN ROLLER DERBY ATHLETES PRE AND POST BOUT: A PILOT PROGRAM

Background: Roller Derby is a full contact sport played primarily by females of varying ages and backgrounds on a flat oval track with each team consisting of three blockers, one pivot, and one jammer. Roller Derby research is minimal, and no research could be found regarding injury prevention or osteopathic considerations. Existing studies mostly focus on identifying skater injuries and understanding the factors that might contribute to these injuries. Objective: In this novel program, three Roller Derby skaters’ pelvic girdles were osteopathically evaluated and treated to determine what, if any, benefits were found during and/or after their competition. Methods: Three female skaters with variable ages, injury history, and positions consented to pre-bout pelvic girdle osteopathic evaluation and treatment. All were noted to have similar somatic dysfunctions that were corrected with osteopathic manipulative treatments. Bout activity was monitored for playing time and performance. Each skater was reassessed post bout for somatic dysfunctions, any changes felt during competition, and then three days later for any additional changes.

Results: Pregame manipulation has been shown to be beneficial for collegiate football players, but nothing has been documented for roller sports. Treating the somatic dysfunctions of the pelvic girdle in this sample resulted in the skater experiencing increased stability and a faster recovery. Several factors might contribute to this, such as improved balance from addressing the dysfunction, enhanced confidence in their skating abilities due to the adjustment, and external elements like facing less formidable opponents, having more game experience, or simply having a good day overall. Conclusions: Osteopathic evaluation and treatment pre-bout may be beneficial to Roller Derby athletes of all positions and backgrounds to help with a sense of stability and recovery post bout.

47 2024 Via Research Recognition Day