ATP Montecarlo, doctor-physiatrist: “Transition from hard court to clay with peak injuries”

“On clay, the biomechanical dynamics of the body change radically – explains the expert – The surface dampens the speed of the ball, considerably lengthening the times of each individual exchange and imposing on tennis players a much higher cardiovascular and energetic expenditure compared to concrete. Added to this – he continues – is the dynamics of running and sliding: the foot does not stop suddenly, but slides on the ground. This movement requires prolonged eccentric neuromuscular control, acutely and differently stressing the joints, tendons and muscles”.

“Hence perhaps also the small problem complained of with his back, for which the champion required the intervention of a physiotherapist. From this point of view, scrupulous attention to active recovery, deep rehydration, specific nutrition and all the rehabilitation strategies useful for regenerating the muscle fibers are necessary – suggests Bernetti – Fatigue in this specific phase of the sporting season, like that accused by Sinner, is fully part of the physiological dynamics and the process of getting used to the ground again red. We hope that the champion can continue until the end of the tournament”, concludes the specialist.