Injury Incidence and Injury Period Prevalence in Underwater Hockey: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Purpose Underwater Hockey (UWH) is an upcoming sport involving limited contact between players. To date there are no published estimates of injuries in UWH. The aim of this study was to provide estimate on overall injury incidence and injury period prevalence in a sample of UWH players. Methods A cross-sectional study design with a convenience sample of UWH players recorded injuries sustained over the previous 12-month period. A total of 441 UWH players completed the study online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics with confidence intervals, alongside a one variable Chi squared test (χ2) or independent sample t-test. Results The overall injury incidence was 2.33/1000 h. Wrist, hand, and finger injuries combined (31.8%) were the most frequently injured regions followed by isolated shoulder injuries (16.8%). Contact with another player was the most frequent injury mechanism (43.5%) attributed, whilst the most common injury duration was between 8 and 28 days (35.9%). Conclusion This is the first study to report injury data in a sample of UWH players. Incidence rates were similar to other water-based sports such as endurance swimming. The high prevalence of wrist, hand and finger and shoulder injuries suggest that future injury prevention programmes should look to include upper limb-focussed risk reduction strategies.