Abstract

The risk of injuries among basketball players seems to be substantial. The injuries are localized mostly at the lower extremities (70), mainly due to sprains of the ankle and the knee. Also head and fingers are frequently involved sites of injury. Comparison of the available studies is difficult because of the differences in populations and definitions of injury. In contrast to the often investigated incidence, only very little study is made of the risk factors involved. Various investigators recommend preventive measures like modes of protection of ankle, knee, eyes and teeth, and different training programs for man and women. Experimental evidence on the efficacy of these recommendations is missing. Next to adequate etiologic studies on risk factors of basketball injury, preventive experiments are essential in order to make an effective reduction of basketball injuries feasible. Verf.-Referat