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Surveillance of injuries among Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) players — Season 2010


N Muma
H Saidi
JW Githaiga

Abstract

Objective: To determine the incidence and characteristics of injury amongst Kenya rugby union players and associated factors.
Design: A whole population prospective cohort study.
Methods: 364 registered Kenya rugby union (KRU) players were studied
throughout the 2010 season. Data on their demographics, injury incidence, pattern and severity were gathered. The study tool used was the Rugby International Consensus Group (RICG) Statement.
Results: There were 173 backs and 191 forwards. One hundred and two
1 injuries for 60 league games (2400match player hours) were recorded. The incidence of injuries was 42.5/1000 match player hours (mph), (44.2 for forwards and 40.8 for backs). Lower limb injuries were the most common (41.2%). Players were most prone to injuries in the in tackle scenario (63.7%), at the beginning of the season (47.1%), and in
the last quarter (50%) of a game.
Conclusion: The injury incidence recorded contrast the earlier Kenyan
data but is comparable to international amateur level incidence, uniqueness of the Kenyan environment notwithstanding. The higher
rates associated with the tackle/tackled scenario, earlier part of the season and later part of the game, suggest interventions can target player conditioning, and use of protective gear.

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eISSN: 2523-0816
print ISSN: 1999-9674