By Andy Hunt, CEO
"If you want easy answers, you have to ask easy questions."
This thought encapsulated our experience at the inaugural Sports Medicine and Technology conference hosted by The Podium Institute for Sports Medicine and Technology at the University of Oxford at the end of September. While some may seek straightforward solutions, our institute is committed to tackling the really difficult questions surrounding sports injuries, recognising that true progress often requires delving into complex challenges. This event not only celebrated our three-year (and four days) anniversary since the official launch of Podium Analytics but also marked a significant step forward in the evolution of sports medicine and technology through our ambitious partnership with the University of Oxford.
Three years on, I couldn't be prouder of the Podium team and the journey we've undertaken. The conference served as a testament to our cross-disciplinary approach in addressing the issue of sports injuries. Clinicians, researchers, technologists, engineers, and sports medics gathered to share their insights and expertise, alongside our Doctoral Training students—many of whom bring their own experiences as athletes to the forefront of sports science and medicine.
The venue, the Richard Doll Building at the University of Oxford, was particularly symbolic. Richard Doll, widely regarded as one of the world’s most distinguished epidemiologists, transformed our understanding of public health by proving the link between smoking and serious diseases. Hosting our discussions in such a revered space underscored the importance of our work and the potential impact we can have on public health through sports.
During the two days of deep discussion, we tackled the often-overlooked issue of sports injury in youth and grassroots sports. This is an area that demands attention, as the burden of injury is far-reaching yet remains poorly understood. Through keynotes, contributed talks, and panel discussions, we balanced current research findings with lessons learned from outside the realm of sports. Notable highlights included presentations from Professor Andrew Zisserman, who showcased groundbreaking computer vision tools for injury detection, and Professor Lee Goldstein, who provided compelling insights into the mechanisms behind concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
Our Chief Technology Officer, Damian Smith, opened the Big Data section, illustrating how Podium’s Trusted Research Environment for Global Sport, with World Rugby as our inaugural partner, can expedite global research. The discussions led by Dr. Catherine Wheatley and Dr. Carly McKay on the intricate relationship between injury and mental health were particularly enlightening. They emphasised the need for evidence-based support and the importance of incorporating the athlete's voice in designing interventions, echoing Professor Lucy Bowes' assertion that “Humans are systems – Mental Health is integral to studying injury.”
Throughout the conference, we engaged with perspectives from outside the sports arena, enriching our understanding of the practical challenges faced on the ground. Topics such as wearables and personal protective equipment (PPE) sparked lively debates on human behaviour and market demand, while discussions on imaging techniques and the use of biomarkers illuminated new avenues for diagnosing and characterizing injuries.
The momentum surrounding the need to address sports injuries was unmistakable. There was a palpable ambition to understand causality rather than merely correlation, and a strong consensus on the necessity for injury surveillance as a fundamental duty of care.
As we reflect on this milestone, I extend my congratulations to our colleagues at The Podium Institute for an outstanding inaugural conference. The insights gained and connections made during these two days will undoubtedly propel us forward as we continue to innovate in the field of sports medicine and technology. Together, we are making strides toward a healthier future for athletes at all levels.