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Handball injuries. An epidemiologic and socioeconomic study
B E Lindblad1, K Høy, C J Terkelsen
1University Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Randers City Hospital, Denmark.
The American Journal of Sports Medicine
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Handball injuries are common, with women experiencing twice the rate of men. Ligament sprains and fractures are the most frequent handball injuries, leading to significant time away from play.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Handball is a dynamic sport with a high risk of injury.
- Understanding injury patterns is crucial for prevention and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively register and analyze handball-related injuries in a defined population.
- To determine the incidence, types, and consequences of handball injuries.
Main Methods:
- Prospective registration of 570 handball injuries over a specific period.
- Calculation of injury incidence per 10,000 inhabitants.
- Categorization of injury types (sprains, fractures) and severity.
Main Results:
- Overall incidence of handball injuries was 46 per 10,000 inhabitants annually.
- Women had a higher incidence rate (61/10,000) compared to men (31/10,000).
- Ligament sprains/tears (62%) and fractures (12%) were the most common injuries; 7% required hospitalization.
Conclusions:
- Handball poses a significant injury risk, particularly for women.
- The majority of injuries result in extended absence from the sport.
- Even minor injuries can lead to substantial sick leave, impacting players and potentially the economy.