The pattern of injuries among high school rugby players and the initial treatment in Eldoret, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Rugby is a team sport involving contact and collision of players and consequently has a high injury rate. Many studies on injuries in rugby have concentrated on professional players leaving out the high school players. This study takes into consideration the latter group.

Objective: To find out the pattern and initial care of sports injuries among High School rugby players in Eldoret, Kenya.

Methods: A prospective descriptive study conducted in four public secondary schools within Eldoret town (September 2015 - April 2016). Recruited rugby players who met inclusion criteria were 123. Consent and assent were obtained, and validated interviewer administered questionnaires were used for data collection. Physical examination was done on all injured players. Data analysis was done using R and presented in tables and prose so as to make detailed interpretations.

Results: Forwards were 69 while backs were 54. Average age, weight, height and BMI were 17.6 years, 68.7kgs, 177.2cm and 22.1kg/m2 respectively. The 47 and 6 players each sustained one and two injuries each respectively. The backs and forwards recorded 53% and 47% injuries respectively. Anatomic distribution: lower limbs 23 (39%), upper limbs 22(37%), head and neck 8 (14%) and trunk 6 (10%). Injury variables included contact with other players, tackle and scrum were 32 (54.2%), 28 (47.5%), and 9 (15.3%) respectively. First and second half, and added _me injuries were 12 (35.3%), 20 (58.8%) and 2 (5.9%) respectively. Minor- mild, and moderate- severe injuries were 68% and 32% respectively. Initial care to all injured was by peers and coaches / teachers on field, involved use of ice-packs, bandaging, topical analgesics, rest and massage, with 24 (40.7%) out of 59 injured referred to various health institutions. Increase in weight was associated with increased risk of injury to the participant, p=0.038.

Conclusions: Majority of the injuries occurred on the lower limbs mainly on the knee. The initial care was first aid on the field offered by peers and coaches/ teachers.