Creatine Supplementation: It’s Association with Muscle Injury in Young Rugby Players.
Date
2006-11-10T12:03:36Z
Authors
Harris, Lindsay
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Abstract
Coaches and athletes are continually searching for ways to gain the "competitive edge" and
improve athletic performance. Ergogenic substances and procedures are used routinely at
almost all competitive levels. Creatine has become one of the most popular nutritional
supplements among athletes in recent times. There is evidence suggesting that there are
side effects of creatine supplementation. These include renal stress/failure, muscle injury
and cramping. While creatine supplementation has the potential to be a safe and effective
nutritional aid, these potential side effects may lead to long term problems in athletes.
The aim of the study was to determine whether creatine supplementation is associated with
injury defined as cramping and muscle strains.
This was done using a questionnaire. A questionnaire was developed to consist of three
sections determining the player’s training program, incidence of injury and use of creatine
supplementation, if any. A pilot study was conducted to establish the validity and
reliability of the questionnaire, estimate the time for data collection and identify any
unanticipated problems. First team rugby players between the ages of 16 and 19 selected
from six competitively recognized rugby schools within the Gauteng Province were
included in the study.
Consent was obtained from the headmasters of the relevant schools, coaches, and
parents/guardians. Questionnaires were completed with the researcher present to explain
any part of the questionnaire, which the players did not understand.
Data were analyzed using the odds ratio from a logistic regression.
The results reveal that no association exists between creatine supplementation and muscle
injury in the form of cramping and muscle strains. The subjects were not aware of creatine
supplementation recommendations and as a result it was being taken inconsistently and
haphazardly.
Description
Faculty of Health Sciences
School of Physiotherapy
9605675x
lindsayharris912@hotmail.com
Keywords
Creatine, Supplementation, Muscle, Injury, Rugby