Medical Infrared Thermography (IFT) is a non-radiating and non-invasive analysis tool for physiological functions related to skin-temperature control. In the past it has been successfully used in veterinary medicine for injury prevention and management in race horses (TURNER et al. 2000). Any significant asymmetry of more than one degree centigrade from two sides of the body may indicate a pathophysiological process. Knowing that similar anatomical and physiological conditions exist, it can be assumed that IFT is a helpful to manage injuries in human athletes. But there is a lack of evidence, demonstrating the successful use with the advantage of twenty first century technology (DIAKIDES 2008). The knee is a weak link and the frequently affected in alpine skiing (PUJOL et al 2007). Long-term consequences such as osteoarthritis and high treatment costs raise safety concerns. Valid and reliable measurements are crucial to evaluate IFT as a screening tool in the prevention, diagnosis and rehabilitation of knee injuries in athletes. For this purpose the standardisation methods, proper recordings and the optimal image analysis were defined. METHODS: We conducted a pre-season measurement of 35 female and 52 male junior alpine ski racers (non-injured, previous injury and acute injury) aged 14-19 years from the "Skigymnasium Stams". After an acclimatisation period of 20 minute we recorded an image of the anterior/posterior and medial/lateral aspect of both knees with an infrared camera (TVS500EX). To analyse the images we used the software GORATEC Thermography Studio Report. A physiotherapist examined the functional aspect of the knee. RESULTS: In 6 male athletes intra-individual thermal asymmetries of 1.4 (±0.58) degree Celsius over the tibia revealed overuse reactions such as Osgood-Schlatter disease. The clinical examinations confirmed these findings. The evaluation of 7 feminine and 1 male athlete with an operation of the knee over the last 6 months clearly demonstrated the localisation and extent of the affected area. DISCUSSION: This study was instrumental in learning how to use the technology. It clarified the potential of IFT for a more objective and uncomplicated evaluation of knee injuries. Pre-season measurement will be compared with post-season measurements to evaluate the physical stress. In case of thermal asymmetries of more than one degree Celsius they will be analysed with structural measurements such as magnetic resonance imaging and X-ray. These results can be used to adjust the training programs of the at-risk athletes and may lessen the severity and frequency of overuse and acute knee injuries.
© Copyright 2009 14th annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science, Oslo/Norway, June 24-27, 2009, Book of Abstracts. Veröffentlicht von The Norwegian School of Sport Sciences. Alle Rechte vorbehalten.