title: History of sports medicine in East European countries.
abstract: The purpose of this article is to provide a historical background of medicine, science and sports with the focus on the development of modern sports medicine in European countries, with an accent on Eastern European countries that have a long sports medicine tradition. The development of modern sports medicine began at the end of 19th and the beginning of 20th century, and it has been associated with social and cultural changes in the world of medicine, science and sports. Advanced medical knowledge, skills and practices, and the progress of scientific achievements enabled sports people to improve their performance level. Increased popularisation and commercialisation of sports have resulted from urbanization and city lifestyle, leading to the lack of physical activity and increased psychological pressure. In addition, the growing need and interest in sports and successes in professional sports have become a symbol of international recognition and
authors.forename: Biljana
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Lazovč
authors.forename: Sanja
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Mazič
authors.forename: Marina
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Delič
authors.forename: Jelena
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Suzič Lazič
authors.forename: Radmila
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Sparič
authors.forename: Zoran
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Stajič
mesh_terms: D005061:Europe, Eastern; D006293:Health Promotion; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D013178:Sports Medicine / Q000266:history*; D014507:Urbanization