Study Reveals Importance of Injury Prevention Plan in European Handball
Handball is a sport characterized by high-intensity actions such as sprints, jumps, landings, and rapid throws and poses significant injury risks. Competitive pressures, congested schedules, and the need for consistent performance contribute to a high injury rate among professional players. And now a 6‑year study underscores the importance of implementing injury prevention strategies and points out what coaches can do.
Researchers conducted the study titled: “Ligament Injuries in Professional Male Handball Players: A 6‑Year Longitudinal Study”, using 68 elite male Spanish handball players as their subjects.
During this period, they observed 54 time-loss injuries (injuries resulting in at least one day of absence). Ligament injury data were recorded following the International Olympic Committee consensus statement.
Start using data to enhance your coaching strategies. Our free guide lays out three sports performance metrics you can use in handball.
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Most Handball Injuries Occur During Match-Play
- Overall Incidence: The study reported an overall incidence of 0.89 ligament injuries per 1000 hours of exposure.
- Match-Play vs. Training: Ligament injuries were more frequent during match-play than training sessions.
- Severity: Most injuries were classified as minor or moderate (79.63% of total cases).
- Reinjuries: Nearly half (46.29%) of the injuries were reinjuries.
- Lower Limb Prevalence: Significantly higher incidence occurred in the lower limbs (0.81 vs. 0.08 ligament injuries per 1000 hours; p < 0.001).
- Specific Ligaments: The anterior talofibular ligament of the ankle had the highest incidence (0.57 injuries per 1000 hours), while the anterior cruciate ligament had the greatest burden (24.08 absence days per 1000 hours).
The Dutch Handball Federation uses player tracking to manage workloads, prepare for matches, and prevent injuries.
Learn How The Dutch Handball Federation Uses Player Tracking to Manage Player Workloads
Study Underscores the Need for Injury Prevention Plans
This study accentuates the importance of implementing injury prevention strategies during competition.
Specific activation techniques and strength-based training programs can help reduce injury recurrences among professional handball players. These can include:
Injury Prevention Exercise Programs (IPEPs):
- IPEPs have been shown to reduce short-term risk of knee, ankle, and shoulder injuries by up to 50% under ideal controlled conditions.
- These programs typically include exercises targeting specific muscle groups, balance, and proprioception.
- Vital components for successful implementation include involving players, coaches, and governing bodies, enhancing program fidelity, and promoting maintenance.
Strength-Based Training:
- Elite handball players often perform extra strength or weight training, like plyometrics, alongside court training.
- Incorporate IPEP exercises into strength training routines to improve muscle strength and prevent injuries.
- Focus on muscle groups relevant to handball movements (e.g., lower limbs, core, and upper body).
Activation Techniques:
- Specific activation strategies can enhance muscle readiness and reduce injury risk during competition.
- Examples include dynamic warm-ups, proprioceptive drills, and sport-specific movements.
- Prioritize exercises that activate muscles involved in handball actions (e.g., cutting, jumping, and landing).
Remember that individualized programs, proper technique, and gradual progression are essential. Consult with a sports physiotherapist or strength coach to tailor these strategies to each player’s needs and goals.
Handball Analytics Enhance Injury and Return-To-Play Protocols
At Rhein-Neckar Löwen, the athletic trainer embraces player tracking technology to help prevent handball injuries. This innovative approach achieves two goals: effective player load management and personalized training protocols for each team member.
To learn more, check out the case study by clicking the link below. Or contact one of our experts for additional information.
Rhein-Neckar Löwen Uses Innovative Approach to Decrease the Risk of Handball Injuries
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