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Published on: May 1, 2018
Summary
Elite basketball players experience frequent injuries, particularly ankle twists. This study highlights injury rates in Swedish male and female players, suggesting prophylactic orthoses may help prevent common basketball injuries.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Basketball is a high-impact sport with a significant risk of player injuries.
- Understanding injury patterns in elite athletes is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and types of injuries sustained by Swedish elite basketball players.
- To quantify injury frequency per activity hour and per team per season.
- To identify common injury locations and suggest preventative measures.
Main Methods:
- A survey-based study interviewing Swedish male and female elite basketball players.
- Data collected on injuries sustained during the 1981/1982 season.
- Injury data analyzed for frequency, type, and location.
Main Results:
- 58% of male and 62% of female players reported injuries.
- Injury frequency was 2.5/1,000 activity-hours for males and 2.85/1,000 activity-hours for females.
- Ankle twists accounted for 52% of injuries; knee injuries for 18%.
Conclusions:
- Elite basketball players, both male and female, have a high rate of injuries.
- Ankle and knee injuries are prevalent, with ankle twists being the most common.
- Prophylactic orthoses for the knee and ankle are recommended to reduce injury incidence.
