Abstract
Top-level gymnasts were examined in 1976 and in 1980. During both examinations X-ray
osteal changes as a result of training were found. In 1980 complaints of pain during
the training process were analyzed. It was found that radiological changes appeared
in the elbow joints (73.2%), spinal column (65.8%), in the area of the shoulder joints
(59.8%), and in the wrist joints (58.5%). The L-S segment of the spinal column had
such anomalies as schistorrhachis of the S1 arc, lumbarization, and sacralization. A characteristic feature was the frequent
discrepancy between complaints of pain and radiological changes. In many cases permanent
radiological changes were not accompanied by pain. Longer training periods were associated
with more pronounced changes. It was concluded that radiological examinations should
be one of the criteria for selecting gymnasts and a change in the FIG regulations
is proposed to reduce the work load of the motor system.
Key words
gymnastics - competitors - physical exercise - motor system
