Analysis of biomechanical prerequisites for foot deformations in young hockey players

The purpose of the study is to investigate the influence of hockey training experience on the prevalence of foot deformities in young hockey players, as well as to identify morphobiomechanical prerequisites for disorders of the structural and functional state of the foot. Research methods and organization. The following research methods were applied: analysis and synthesis of literary sources, testing, and mathematical-statistical data processing. The study involved athletes born in 2015–2016 who were at the initial stage of sports training and differed in their duration of hockey practice. In the comparison groups, comprehensive diagnostics of flexible flatfoot were performed, as well as an assessment of certain biomechanical prerequisites for the development of foot deformities. Research results and conclusions. It was revealed that as the duration of sports training increases, the number of young athletes with various structural and functional foot disorders grows. Furthermore, among young athletes with greater sports training experience, individuals with excess body weight, bow legs, and postural disorders are more common. Such comprehensive studies are particularly important during periods of intensive growth and foot arch formation, that is, at the stage of initial sports training.