Frequency and predictability of sports injuries in intercollegiate athletes

Abstract

This study analyzes injury frequency and predictability in 712 intercollegiate athletes in 24 different male and female sports over the 1984-85 season. The injury rate was 38% for males and 32% for females, with the males suffering more acute injuries. While the men's hockey team had the highest player injury rate, the football team had the greatest absolute number of injuries. Overall, the anatomic location with the highest injury rate was the knee, while sprains were the most common type of injury. Further elaboration of these results are provided in graphic form. By comparing injury occurrence to past history and preparticipation physical findings, this study assesses the predictability of injury. With one exception, no significant relationship was found. It would appear that the preseason exam may play a role in identification, rather than prediction of sports injuries.