The epidemiology of injuries in professional sitting volleyball athletes.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the epidemiology of injury among players at the Iran Sitting Volleyball Super League 2023-2024.

METHODS

A total of 56 athletes from 6 teams, representing 47% of all athletes in the Super League, took part in this study. Injury data were obtained retrospectively through one-by-one interview sessions and a questionnaire.

RESULTS

A total of 80 injuries were reported in 30 athletes at the Iran Sitting Volleyball (SV) Professional League. The injury proportion (IP) (%) of all athletes who sustained an injury during the League was 53.6%, with an overall incidence of 16.2 injuries per 1000 athlete days (95% CI 12.7 to 19.8). There was a significantly higher incidence of injury during the competition period (33.5 (95% CI 16.5 to 50.4)) compared with the pre-competition period (14.5 (95% CI 11.0 to 18.0); IR:2.31 (95% CI 1.3 to 4.0); p < 0.01). There were no significant differences between post and age groups concerning injury rate in the overall period. The injuries incurred are mostly re-injuries, and the anatomical areas of the fingers, wrist, and shoulder are at the most risk for injury.

CONCLUSION

This study provides important baseline data for medical staff and coaches, aiding in better preparation for long-term competitions and improving injury prevention programs for this sport.