Abstract

Due to the multiple origin of the lesions, identifying risk factors and assessing an athlete's susceptibility to experience an injury and the manner in which it will develop is difficult to predict. The value of each individual's genetic component as a probable source of injury predisposition has been debated in recent years. The goal of this paper was to write a review of the genetic studies on connective tissue injuries that have been done to date, as well as to suggest future research lines that would allow for the development of more personalised training programmes and specific preventive therapies to reduce injury risk. The complex nature of injuries makes identifying risk variables more difficult (extrinsic and intrinsic factors). These factors, combined with their interaction, predispose an athlete to injury. In recent years, the importance of each individual's genetic component as a possible source of injury predisposition has grown.

The purpose of this paper was to propose a review of published genetic studies on connective tissue repair or regeneration in order to pave the way for future Sports Medicine research. This information could be extremely beneficial in tailoring injury prevention efforts and optimising the therapy and rehabilitation process following an injury.Applied biology is already advancing knowledge by developing new biomarkers that will provide information and improve understanding of an individual's vulnerability to particular types of harm. Genetic analysis can provide us with a valid and objective predictive parameter that, when paired with current analysis methodologies, can help us improve athlete performance and management.