Abstract

To obtain a general review of the epidemiology of injuries sustained during volleyball, a questionnaire investigation was undertaken. Questionnaires were sent to 116 players from 11 Danish elite teams chosen at random and 92 replied (79.3). A total of 69 injuries occurred with an incidence of 3.1 injuries per player per 1,000 hours of play. During training the incidence was 1.9 and during matches 9.4. The injuries were distributed equally in the upper and lower limbs (41.9 and 44.9, respectively). Knee and shoulder injuries were responsible for the most prolonged incapacity. 86 of the players were injured while playing along the net. Only 31.9 of the injuries were examined by physicians. On the basis of the findings in this investigation, the following prophylactic measures are proposed: prophylactic taping of the finger and ankle joints, sports shoes with high ankle support and better information about injuries. Every team should have a consultant physician. Verf.-Referat