Jasprit Bumrah injury: Wrong bowling techniques, lack of proper core strength & stability leads to stress fracture

A stress fracture is an overuse injury caused due to frequent monotonous and repetitive movements. The weak areas of the body break down, says Mr Ramji Srinivasan, former Strength & Conditioning Coach, Team India. The Indian cricket team was dealt with a major blow on Thursday as pacespearhead Jasprit Bumrah had a back stress fracture. He is unlikely to participate in the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia due to the injury.

After Ravindra Jadeja, Bumrah will be the second quality player to miss India’s quest to lift the second T20 World Cup title after 2007.

“Wrong bowling technique and lack of proper core strength and stability further compound the problem. It’s not specific to a particular part of one’s body. Stress-fracture can impact a person on any part of their body. Their shin, their back, the groin area, etc. As the lay outsider, we might wonder about its gravity,” said Mr Srinivasan, currently strength and conditioning coach of CWG-gold medallist Sharath Kamal.

A stress reaction that goes untreated will develop into a stress fracture. As the lay outsider, we might wonder about its gravity. Addressing this query, Mr. Srinivasan admitted it’s difficult to come out of injuries, and it may take four to six weeks. “Stress fracture demands proper rest and proper physiological protocols to be rendered by professionals that can help heal stress fracture over time. Or else, if it’s in a bad case, it needs an intervention – operation. That can rule one out for 6-8 months.,” he added.

He further mentioned that correct movement in bowling biomechanics is critical in avoiding any stress-related injuries. “Next, professional strength and conditioning protocols need to be addressed. Then one must follow a proper recovery protocol. There has to be professional workload management. A diet and hydration schedule are the other two crucial aspects an athlete must take care of,” said Mr Srinivasan.

As we conclude the interaction, Mr Srinivasan wished Jasprit Bumrah a ‘speedy recovery and termed him a rockstar for the Indian team. “He is a fighter, and I am confident that he will come back much stronger for sure!” concludes Mr Ramji Srinivasan.