Effects of inertial flywheel training on risk factors for tendinopathy: systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v66.113782Keywords:
Exercise therapy, physical therapy modalities, sports medicine, tendinopathyAbstract
Introduction: Tendinopathies are highly prevalent, particularly among athletes. This study analyses scientific evidence on the effects of flywheel training on risk factors for tendinopathy.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, searching CINAHL, Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Randomised controlled trials and clinical trials evaluating inertial flywheel resistance exercises for tendinopathy were included. Studies that did not assess functional, morphological, or physiological changes in the tendon were excluded.
Three reviewers independently extracted and assessed data quality.
Results: Five studies met the inclusion criteria, involving athletic adults at risk of or diagnosed with patellar tendinopathy, as well as healthy athletes. Training protocols lasted between six and 24 weeks. Most studies reported significant improvements in strength and power, alongside structural changes such as increased tendon cross-sectional area and reduced tendon temperature.
Conclusions: Inertial flywheel resistance training enhances strength, power, and tendon adaptations in active individuals. However, further large-scale, long-term studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness across broader populations and for tendinopathy prevention.
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