visit ipsm.org
  about ipsm  
  projects  
  publications  
    bibliography  
    softball injuries  
    soccer injuries  
    order an article  
  press releases  
  symposium  
  institute update  
  credits  
  memberships  
  links  
     
search  
go search 
home   |   contact us
home > publications > softball injuries >
softball injuries

Aetiology and Prevention

+ David H. Janda, + Donald E. Wild and * Robert N. Hensinger
+ Institute for Preventative Sports Medicine, and Orthopedic Surgery Associates, PC, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA * Pediatric Orthopedic Section, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Hospitals, and Institute for Preventative Sports Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA

ABSTRACT
Over 40 million individuals nationally participate in organized softball leagues, playing an estimated 23 million games per year in the United States It has also been estimated that softball causes more injuries leading to emergency room visits in the United States than any other sport. Between 1983 and 1989, over 2 6 million injuries were documented through selected emergency rooms throughout the United States In addition, the potential costs of these injuries can be staggering, therefore, prevention is of utmost importance. Prior to implementation of any preventative measures, the aetiology and distribution of injuries must be ascertained. Softball-related injuries can be grouped into 3 categories: (a) sliding-related injuries - the most common injury scenario; (b) collision-related injuries; and (c) falls sustained by the player.

Various preventative approaches have been utilised to reduce the incidence of these recreational sports injuries and the associated health care costs. In regard to sliding related injuries, breakaway bases have been utilised and have been found to reduce sliding related injuries by approximately 98%. In reference to collision injuries, deformable walls and padded back stops and field maintenance have been found to prevent the majority of injuries secondary to collisions and falls. In addition, better coaching techniques as well as stretching and conditioning programmes have a11 been found to benefit players in the prevention of their injuries As physicians, trainers and individuals involved with sporting activities, it is imperative that we turn and focus our attention on prevention The cornerstone to diminished injuries and subsequent prevention of an injury is a safer environment for the recreational softball player to participate in.

See the Full Text

It is possible to order a copy of this article.


Copyright © 2001 The Institute for Preventative Sports Medicine. All rights reserved.