Abstract

Trauma to the soft tissues is the most common injury seen as a result of participation in sports. To prevent injury through proper training techniques and to treat injury correctly when it occurs, it is important to understand the biomechanical aspects of soft tissue injuries and healing processes. While most soft tissue injuries are minor and heal uneventfully, others heal with fibrosis and scarring. The result can be compromised function, chronic symptoms, and frequent reinjury. With increased emphasis on athletic training and endurance sports, a higher number of injuries from overuse occur. Excessive force is the cause of injury. It is important to have a clear understanding of: a) the types of forces to which the body is subjected, b) the maximum forces the body can tolerate without deformation, c) the factors which can increase or decrease the ability of the tissues to withstand sudden or repetitive stresses, and, d) time relationships of adaptive and healing processes. Verf.-Referat