The Physical Demands and Injury Risks in Pole Vaulting
Pole vaulting requires a unique combination of strength, flexibility, speed, and precision, but these same factors expose athletes to a high risk of injury. The forces exerted on the lumbar spine, shoulders, and ankles during takeoff, mid-air positioning, and landing often result in musculoskeletal strain, hyperextensions, and impact injuries.
Among the most common injuries experienced by pole vaulters are:
-
Lumbar hyperextension injuries, leading to muscle strain, disc compression, and facet joint irritation.
-
Rotator cuff and shoulder strains, caused by the high stress placed on the shoulders when planting the pole and swinging through.
-
Ankle sprains and soft tissue damage, often due to landing instability and the repetitive impact forces absorbed by the lower limbs.
While physical therapy, pain management, and rest are standard components of recovery, they do not always provide long-term healing or immediate pain relief. Cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM), is emerging as a highly effective tool for accelerating recovery and enhancing tissue repair in injured athletes.
The Science Behind Cold Laser Therapy
Cold laser therapy works at a cellular level, utilising low-intensity red and near-infrared light to stimulate biological processes that enhance tissue healing and reduce inflammation. The mechanism of action includes:
-
Increased ATP Production – Light energy is absorbed by mitochondria, enhancing the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy source required for cellular repair and regeneration.
-
Reduced Inflammatory Response – Cold laser therapy has been shown to downregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines while promoting anti-inflammatory factors, leading to faster resolution of swelling and pain.
-
Improved Microcirculation and Oxygenation – Laser therapy increases local blood flow, ensuring that nutrients and oxygen reach the damaged tissues, thereby promoting faster healing.
-
Pain Reduction via Nerve Modulation – LLLT reduces the excitability of pain-sensing nerves, blocking pain signals at the cellular level without the need for medication.
Research published in PubMed Central (see study) has shown that low-level laser therapy (LLLT), commonly known as cold laser therapy, is effective in reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and promoting healing in musculoskeletal conditions. For pole vaulters, back and shoulder strains are common due to the intense physical demands of the sport. Cold laser therapy offers a safe, non-invasive option to support recovery and enhance performance by addressing pain and inflammation without the risks associated with NSAIDs, steroid injections, or surgery.
Targeted Applications for Pole Vault Injuries
Hyperextended Lumbar Spine
Pole vaulters often experience lower back hyperextension injuries, particularly during the planting phase and mid-air movements. The excessive arching required can lead to chronic muscle tightness, spinal facet joint stress, and even intervertebral disc issues.
Cold laser therapy can be used to:
✔️ Reduce muscle spasms and lumbar stiffness
✔️ Increase flexibility and range of motion
✔️ Enhance postural recovery and core stability
Applying cold laser therapy to the paraspinal muscles, sacroiliac region, and lumbar vertebrae for 10–15 minutes per session can promote long-term spinal resilience.
Rotator Cuff and Shoulder Strains
During takeoff and bar clearance, the shoulders endure immense torque and repetitive strain. Over time, this can lead to:
✔️ Rotator cuff tendinopathy
✔️ Labral irritation due to forceful extension
✔️ Joint instability and restricted movement
Cold laser therapy can accelerate healing in the tendons and ligaments while reducing inflammation in the subacromial space—helping athletes regain full, pain-free motion in the shoulders.
Ankle Sprains and Ligament Strain
Ankle injuries frequently occur due to:
✔️ Landing with improper foot alignment
✔️ Excessive dorsiflexion during takeoff
✔️ Repetitive impact from training on hard surfaces
Cold laser therapy has been proven to:
✔️ Speed up ligament recovery by enhancing collagen synthesis
✔️ Reduce post-injury swelling and discomfort
✔️ Improve load tolerance, reducing reinjury risk
Applying cold laser therapy directly over the lateral ankle ligaments and Achilles tendon can significantly improve recovery outcomes.
Michele A’s Experience with Cold Laser Therapy
Michele A, a user of the Handy Pulse Laser, shared:
"I really, really like the Handy Pulse Laser and appreciate that it gives patients the freedom and power to manage many of their ailments at home. For me, personally, it’s a blessing because, although I am an acupuncturist, I can’t treat my own back very well. So, I love the laser holder, which allows me to treat that area."
This highlights the practical benefits of self-treatment, especially for hard-to-reach areas like the lower back—a key injury zone for pole vaulters.
Best Practices for Using Cold Laser Therapy in Pole Vault Recovery
Recommended Protocols
✔️ Lumbar Spine – 10–15 minutes per session, applied to the lower back and sacral region to alleviate tightness and inflammation.
✔️ Shoulders – 5–10 minutes per session, targeting the rotator cuff, deltoids, and scapular stabilizers to reduce tendon stress and joint stiffness.
✔️ Ankles & Lower Leg – 10 minutes per session, applied over lateral ankle ligaments and Achilles tendon to accelerate healing.
Treatment Frequency
-
Acute injuries: 1–2 sessions per day for the first week to manage pain and swelling.
-
Chronic injuries: 3–5 sessions per week to improve long-term function.
-
Preventative care: 2–3 sessions per week for athletes who engage in intense training regimens.
Why Cold Laser Therapy is a Breakthrough for Pole Vaulters
Unlike traditional methods such as NSAIDs, cortisone injections, or extended rest, cold laser therapy provides active healing without the risks of medication dependence or invasive procedures. By incorporating this non-invasive, drug-free solution, pole vaulters can:
✔️ Recover faster from muscle and ligament injuries
✔️ Reduce inflammation without medication
✔️ Maintain flexibility and mobility for optimal performance
✔️ Prevent re-injury by strengthening soft tissue structures
For athletes who rely on peak physical condition, investing in cutting-edge recovery tools like cold laser therapy could be the key to extending their careers while reducing downtime from injury.
🔗 Learn more about the Pulsed Low-Level Laser Therapy Device here.
By incorporating scientific advancements like cold laser therapy into training and rehabilitation protocols, pole vaulters can enhance performance, protect joint integrity, and stay competitive for years to come.
References:
Cotler HB, Chow RT, Hamblin MR, Carroll J. The Use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) For Musculoskeletal Pain. MOJ Orthop Rheumatol. 2015;2(5):00068. doi: 10.15406/mojor.2015.02.00068. Epub 2015 Jun 9. PMID: 26858986; PMCID: PMC4743666.
