Epidemiology and causes of common soccer injuries during university games in Uganda

Abstract

The study sought to establish the common soccer injuries, their causes and management among Busitema University athletes. The study used a cross-sectional survey design involving quantitative and qualitative approaches on a sample of 76 respondents, obtained by simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Data was collected by use of self-administered questionnaires, an observational tool and interview guide. Quantitative data analysis involved generation of descriptive statistics; frequencies, percentages and means.  Qualitative data was analysed using content analysis. The study established that the common injuries were ligament sprain or strains (56.6%) and re-injuries (55.1%). Dry and hard grounds, joint instability, bad playing field conditions, inadequate treatment/ rehabilitation from previous injury, exercise overload/ over training, poor skill execution, poor training techniques and player neglect caused the injuries. It was recommended that quality playing fields and equipment, providing players with adequate attention and advocating for full implementation of fair play rules should be fostered to abate sports injuries.