INJURIES IN COMPETITIVE JUNIOR ICE-HOCKEY - 1437 PLAYERS FOLLOWED FORONE SEASON

During one season we followed 1437 ice-hockey players, 9-18 years of a ge, participating in a junior league. We found 128 injuries (9 percent ) that caused the player to miss at least one training session or game . One third of the injuries were a result of foul play. The most commo n types of injury were contusions, sprains, and lacerations. However, fissures and fractures were surprisingly frequent, reflecting foul pla y with the stick and improper use of the protective equipment. Thanks to the mandatory use of a completely-covering face protector, there we re few maxillofacial injuries. The highest yearly incidence of injurie s was found in the older players. Prevention of ice hockey injuries is multifactorial, including stricter rule enforcement, improved protect ive equipment, and better understanding of the forces involved.