Abstract
Objective
Data from the Paralympic Games indicate a fluctuating injury incidence in the Paralympic sport Goalball, but the mechanisms behind have not been explored. The aims of this study were to; i) quantitatively analyze Goalball injuries reported in the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, ii) qualitatively explain the differences between both Games, and iii) qualitatively assess general injury mechanisms and prevention opportunities of injuries in Goalball.
Design
This was a mixed-method study. Injury incidence rate (IR) were analysed from data collected during the 2012 and 2016 Paralympic Games. Then, semi-structured interviews of Games participants qualitatively explored injury mechanisms and prevention opportunities.
Results
A reduction of injuries occurred from 2012 (IR: 19.5; 95% CI 12.5- 26.5) to 2016 (IR: 5.6; 95% CI 1.7-9.5). In both Games, acute traumatic injuries were most common. Female athletes reported higher rate of injuries compared to males (p = 0.05). Qualitative data revealed that causes of injuries were collisions, overuse and poor physical conditioning. The differences between the two Games were explained by equipment, environment, and preparations.
Conclusion
The result from this study indicates that injuries in Goalball are multifactorial. Ultimately, the mixed-method data from this study can help the sports context to develop prevention measures.
Data from the Paralympic Games indicate a fluctuating injury incidence in the Paralympic sport Goalball, but the mechanisms behind have not been explored. The aims of this study were to; i) quantitatively analyze Goalball injuries reported in the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, ii) qualitatively explain the differences between both Games, and iii) qualitatively assess general injury mechanisms and prevention opportunities of injuries in Goalball.
Design
This was a mixed-method study. Injury incidence rate (IR) were analysed from data collected during the 2012 and 2016 Paralympic Games. Then, semi-structured interviews of Games participants qualitatively explored injury mechanisms and prevention opportunities.
Results
A reduction of injuries occurred from 2012 (IR: 19.5; 95% CI 12.5- 26.5) to 2016 (IR: 5.6; 95% CI 1.7-9.5). In both Games, acute traumatic injuries were most common. Female athletes reported higher rate of injuries compared to males (p = 0.05). Qualitative data revealed that causes of injuries were collisions, overuse and poor physical conditioning. The differences between the two Games were explained by equipment, environment, and preparations.
Conclusion
The result from this study indicates that injuries in Goalball are multifactorial. Ultimately, the mixed-method data from this study can help the sports context to develop prevention measures.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 746-753 |
| Journal | American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation |
| Volume | 102 |
| Issue number | 8 |
| Early online date | 2022 Sept 30 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2023 |
Subject classification (UKÄ)
- Sport and Fitness Sciences