Study of aeroball injuries. Issue 3 (September 1997)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sinha, A; McGlone, R G; Montgomery, K
• Is Part Of: British journal of sports medicine. Volume 31:Issue 3(1997)
• Page Start: 200
• Page End: 204
• Publication Date: 1997-09
• Subjects: Sports medicine -- Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1136/bjsm.31.3.200
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-3674

Abstract

Abstract : OBJECTIVE: To present the risks of aeroball, a new sport played by either two or four players on a trampoline court surrounded by specially constructed fabric walls, and to propose ways to increase awareness and reduce the incidence of injury, in particular, ankle injury. METHOD: A study was carried out to document the nature of aeroball related incidents, between 1991 and 1995, at Lancaster University Sports Centre. Lace-up ankle supports were introduced in April 1992, and their effect on the incidence of ankle injury was recorded. RESULTS: The lower limb received most injuries (90%), followed by the upper limb (6%), then the face (3%) and cervical spine (1%). The most common category of injuries was sprains (83%), followed by fractures (8%), contusions (5%), and dislocations (4%). The most common site of injury was the ankle (73%). It is during doubles play that injury is most likely to occur. Since the introduction of ankle supports, there has been a gradual decline in the incidence of ankle injury, 31 in 1991 to nine in 1995. CONCLUSION: Aeroball has become a popular sport, but it is not without risks. Leaflets have been produced to promote the objectives, rules, and safety of the game. Trained full-time staff should be present to explain the nature of the game. The use of prophylactic ankle stabilisers in aeroball is strongly recommended.