School sports accidents: Analysis of causes, modes, and frequencies

About 5% of all school children are seriously injured during physical educa tion every year. Because of its influence on children's attitude toward spo rts and the economic aspects, an evaluation of causes and medical consequen ces is necessary. In this study, 213 school sports accidents were investiga ted. Besides diagnosis, the localization of injuries, as well as the durati on of the sick leave were documented. Average age of injured students was 1 3 years. Most of the injured students blamed themselves for the accident. T he most common injuries were sprains, contusions, and fractures. Main reaso ns for the accidents were faults in basic motion training. Playing soccer a nd basketball were the most frequent reasons for injuries. The upper extrem ity was more frequently involved than the lower extremity. Sports physician s and teachers should work out a program outlining the individual needs and capabilities of the injured students to reintegrate them into physical edu cation.