Analysis of research trends in para-athletics from 2015 to 2025 Bibliometric review
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Abstract
Introduction: para-athletics is an adaptation of athletics for athletes with disabilities and has experienced notable interest in recent years. This expansion has generated increasing research output across disciplines related to sport, rehabilitation, and performance. Objective: To analyse global research trends in para-athletics between 2015 and 2025 by examining publication output, keywords, journals, countries, institutions, and emerging research topics. Methods: A bibliometric review was conducted using publications indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). Only articles published between 2015 and 2025 were included. Bibliometric indicators were analysed using Microsoft Excel (v.2504) and VOSviewer (v.1.6.11) to examine publication patterns, collaboration networks, keyword co-occurrence, and thematic development. Results: A total of 1,237 articles were identified. Scientific production increased steadily between 2015 and 2022, followed by a decline in 2023. USA, England, and China showed the highest research output. The most productive journals were Journal of Athletic Training, American Journal of Sports Medicine, and Human Sport Medicine. The most frequent keywords were performance, exercise, and sport, indicating a strong focus on performance. Conclusion: Research in para-athletics has expanded significantly over the past decade, revealing global publication patterns and dominant research themes that may guide future studies in the field.
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