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ABSTRACT
This study describes the epidemiology of back/neck/spine injuries in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s and women’s ice hockey. Data from 66 NCAA men’s and 29 women’s ice hockey programmes (total of 147 and 67 team-seasons, respectively) were analysed from the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program during the 2009/2010–2014/2015 academic years. In the study period, 226 and 97 back/neck/spine injuries were reported in men and women, respectively, for injury rates of 0.56 and 0.65/1000 athlete exposures. Injury rates were higher in competitions than practices in men (injury rate ratio [IRR] = 4.22; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.24–5.49) and women (IRR = 2.49; 95% CI: 1.67–3.70). Most injuries occurred in the lower back/lumbar spine (men: 52.2%; women: 48.5%). There were notably low rates of fractures and severe spinal injuries for both sexes. This study enhances our understanding of the incidence, mechanisms and factors influencing these injuries and can ultimately lead to more effective injury prevention.
Acknowledgements
The NCAA Injury Surveillance Program data were provided by the Datalys Center for Sports Injury Research and Prevention. The Injury Surveillance Program was funded by the NCAA. The content of this manuscript is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the NCAA. We thank the many ATs who have volunteered their time and efforts to submit data to the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program. Their efforts are greatly appreciated and have had a tremendously positive effect on the safety of collegiate athletes.
Geolocation information
This study took place in the United States.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.