Relationship of training with abnormal posture and spinal curvature disorders in specialized athletes

Peng Hao; Jiang Yang; Song Yanping; Yao Na; Shen Zhen; Song Yueyu; Chen Qigang

doi:10.12307/2025.923

Abstract：OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the relationship between abnormal posture,spinal curvature disorders,and training in specialized athletes through a systematic review and meta-analysis,providing scientific evidence for spinal health management in these athletes. METHODS:A systematic search was conducted in CNKI,VIP,WanFang,CBM,PubMed,Embase,Cochrane Library,and Web of Science databases for Chinese and English literature related to spinal health and sports training in specialized athletes from 2000 to the present.Three independent researchers screened the literature,extracted data,and assessed literature quality based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.Data analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 software to evaluate differences in outcomes such as the incidence of scoliosis,thoracic kyphosis angle,and lumbar lordosis angle. RESULTS:A total of 17 articles covering 18 studies with 48 234 participants were included.Studies have found that the odds ratio for scoliosis incidence in specialized athletes was 3.52[95%confidence interval(CI):2.18-5.69].The average thoracic kyphosis angle in specialized athletes increased by 0.93°(95%CI:0.23-1.62),while the lumbar lordosis angle decreased by 1.95°(95%CI:-2.71 to-1.18).Additionally,the average trunk tilt angle increased by 1.57°(95%CI:0.96-2.17),and the trunk inclination deviation distance increased by 10.64 mm(95%CI:3.21-18.06). CONCLUSION:Long-term specialized training may pose a higher risk of spinal disorders in athletes.It is crucial to consider the impact of different sports,training methods,and individual differences on spinal health,and to develop targeted prevention and intervention strategies to reduce the incidence of spinal disorders,thereby enhancing athletes'performance and quality of life.