Abstract

Aims: Recognition of common sport related injuries and their causing factors is one of the ways of injury prevention. The goal of this study was to investigate the incidence, type and mechanism of injuries among the participants of International Unity & Friendship Karate Cup. Methods: This descriptive survey was carried out in 2009. The statistical population was 165 male karatekas who participated in the 9th International Unity & Friendship Karate Cup and were selected by census method. Data were collected by injury report forms and weight of the athlete, the intensity of the injury, the injury site and the type, time and mechanism of injury were recorded. Descriptive statistical methods and SPSS 16 software were used for data analysis. Results: 75 injuries were recorded, with the mean incidence of 0.32 injuries per match. 80 of injuries were minor, 17.3 moderate and 2.7 were severe. The injuries were most commonly located in the head and face (49.3). The injuries consisted primarily of muscle contusion (60) and hemorrhage (21.3). 24 of injuries took place at the first minute of the competition, 37.3 of injuries in the second minute, 17.3 in third minute and 21.3 out of the competition time. Conclusion: The majority of injuries are minor in Karate and severe injuries are uncommon. The injuries consisted primarily of muscle contusion. Most of injuries occur during the second minute of competition and injuries are most commonly located in head and face.