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Apr 16, 2014Article Details
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Common acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries among female adolescent field hockey players in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Abstract
Objective. To document the prevalence and nature of musculoskeletal injuries among female adolescent hockey players over a 12-month period (1 November 2011 - 31 October 2012).
Methods. Data were collected from 148 high school players who belonged to the KwaZulu-Natal Hockey League via voluntary, parentalinformed consent. Players completed a self-report musculoskeletal questionnaire probing the prevalence and nature of acute and chronic injuries. Probability was set at p≤0.05.
Results. Ninety-four players sustained acute musculoskeletal injuries in the 12-month study period, indicating the knee (23%) and lower back (18%) to be the most prevalent sites of injury (p<0.001). The mechanisms producing the acute injuries were rapid rotational movement (36%) and physical trauma (63%) (p<0.05). The hip/lower back was the most prevalent anatomical site of chronic musculoskeletal injury (p<0.001). The intrinsic factors predisposing players to chronic hip/lower-back injury were hip flexion contractures and posture (p<0.05).
Conclusion. Hockey players experience a high prevalence of acute musculoskeletal knee injuries and chronic hip/lower-back injuries. The hockey fraternity should be educated about the various ways in which to prevent injury by complying with appropriate training regimes, alterations in technique and stretching exercises.
Methods. Data were collected from 148 high school players who belonged to the KwaZulu-Natal Hockey League via voluntary, parentalinformed consent. Players completed a self-report musculoskeletal questionnaire probing the prevalence and nature of acute and chronic injuries. Probability was set at p≤0.05.
Results. Ninety-four players sustained acute musculoskeletal injuries in the 12-month study period, indicating the knee (23%) and lower back (18%) to be the most prevalent sites of injury (p<0.001). The mechanisms producing the acute injuries were rapid rotational movement (36%) and physical trauma (63%) (p<0.05). The hip/lower back was the most prevalent anatomical site of chronic musculoskeletal injury (p<0.001). The intrinsic factors predisposing players to chronic hip/lower-back injury were hip flexion contractures and posture (p<0.05).
Conclusion. Hockey players experience a high prevalence of acute musculoskeletal knee injuries and chronic hip/lower-back injuries. The hockey fraternity should be educated about the various ways in which to prevent injury by complying with appropriate training regimes, alterations in technique and stretching exercises.
