Long-Term Injury Survey in a Japanese University Women’s Soccer Team
A summary of the research:
This study looked at injuries in a Japanese university women's soccer team over three seasons, from 2018 to 2020. Researchers wanted to understand how often injuries happened, what types of injuries were most common, and whether they occurred more during games or practices. They followed 108 players, tracking when injuries occurred, what kind they were (like sprains or concussions), where on the body they happened, and how severe they were. A qualified athletic trainer recorded the injuries, and an orthopedic surgeon confirmed them. The study also looked at injury rates based on player position (forward, midfielder, defender, goalkeeper) and the player's year at the university (freshman to senior).
The study found that injuries happened more often during games than during practices. The overall injury rate was 1.62 injuries for every 1000 times a player was exposed to a game or practice, but the rate was much higher in games (9.86/1000 exposures) compared to practices (1.39/1000 exposures). Sprains were the most common type of injury, and the lower limbs, especially the ankles and feet, were the most frequent injury sites in both games and practices. Severe injuries that kept players out for a long time, such as ACL tears, meniscal injuries, and serious concussions, were also seen in both games and practices.
Here are three key takeaways:
Prioritize injury prevention strategies, especially for games: The study clearly shows a much higher injury rate during games compared to practices. Coaches and administrators should focus on implementing specific injury prevention programs, such as the FIFA 11+, before games to mitigate this higher risk. This could include targeted warm-up routines and exercises that address common game-related injury mechanisms.
Pay close attention to lower limb injuries, particularly ankle and knee sprains: The research highlights that sprains and injuries to the ankles and feet are very common. Coaches should ensure players have proper conditioning and technique to minimize these injuries. Implementing exercises that improve ankle stability and knee control, and potentially ensuring appropriate footwear and playing surface conditions, could be beneficial.
Be vigilant about severe injuries like concussions and ACL/meniscal tears in both games and practices: While less frequent than sprains, severe injuries like concussions, ACL tears, and meniscal injuries can have long-term consequences. Coaches and administrators need to have clear protocols for recognizing and managing these injuries when they occur in either game or practice settings. Considering education for players and staff on concussion awareness and implementing strategies to reduce the risk of severe knee injuries during training drills are important.
Authors: Toshihiro Maemichi & Tsukasa Kumai
You can read the entire article here.
