engleski

The prevalence and distribution of injuries in karate (kumite)

The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence, distribution and severity of injuries occurring during the official non-contact karate competitions in Croatia. The study was performed separately in women and men, in three age groups: pupils-younger cadets (10-14 years), cadets-juniors (15-21 years) and seniors (>18 years). Age, gender, localisation, severity and cause of injury were recorded by means of a simple questionairre. Non-parametric tests were used to determine the differences in prevalences and distribution of the injuries according to age and gender. Value P< 0,05 was considered statistically significant. In 880 fights, 206 injuries were recorded. The prevalence of injuries in male pupils –younger cadets was significantly lower then in male cadets-juniors (17,1%: 27,0% P=0,042) and male seniors (17,1%: 26,7% P=0,023). In women, the prevalence of injuries was similar in seniors, cadets-juniors and pupils-younger cadets (21,8%: 21,1%:20,7% n.s.). There are no significant differences in the prevalence of injuries between women and men in all studied age groups. The majority of injuries in all age groups were caused by receiving a punch. Kicks as a cause of injury were more frequent in pupils-younger cadets then in seniors (29%:11,9% P=0,038). The most frequent localisation of injuries was the head. Lower extremities and trunk were affected more in pupils-younger cadets then in seniors (trunk - 21,9%:5,3% lower extremities - 21,9%:4,4%). Ninety-seven percent of injuries were categorized as minor i.e. grade 1. Results of this study show the frequency of one injury in every four karate fights, similarly in women and men, seniors and cadets-juniors. The majority of injuries were categorized as grade 1, allowing the competitor to continue with the competition. It can be concluded that non-contact karate in Croatia is relatively safe sport under the condition of strict implementation of preventive measures during training and competitions.

injuries; non-contact karate; prevention

nije evidentirano