The prevalence of overuse injuries in Australian non-elite netballers

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of overuse injuries in non-elite netballers and whether these increase over a typical competitive season and to establish if player age, experience, training, and use of bracing are related to overuse injuries.

A prospective study was conducted over a 12-week period, using a recently developed questionnaire. Data were collected on overuse injuries in the knee, ankle, and shoulder areas every week.

Thirty-seven players responded to the questionnaire, with an average response rate of 65%. The total prevalence of overuse injuries identified was 52.7%, with ankle problems accounting for 26% (75 cases), knee problems accounting for 21.2% (61 cases), and shoulder problems accounting for 5.5% (16 cases). Ankle injuries increased over the study period, while knee and shoulder problems decreased. Injuries were more common in players over 36 years old or those with less than 5 years of playing experience. Players who used a brace were more likely to have an overuse complaint. Training volume was not associated with increased risk.

Overuse injuries are common in netballers, particularly of the knee and ankle. Shoulder overuse complaints are higher than previously reported. Risk factors for injury include older age and less playing experience, and these should be considered when planning injury prevention programs for this sport.