Association between in-game Performance Parameters Recorded via Global Positioning System and Sports Injuries to the Lower Extremities in Elite Female Field Hockey Players

Abstract

Objectives: We aimed to determine the potential association between in-game performance parameters recorded via Global Positioning System (GPS) and non-contact knee and ankle injuries in elite female field hockey athletes. Methods/ Statistical Analysis: This study included 32 elite female field hockey players free from sports injuries of the knee and ankle joint. GPS tracking was used to record the distance covered while running at various speeds, time spent sprinting and maximum speed during all international competitions in which each player participated without experiencing pain. All injury events were recorded. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the independent t-test and binary logistic regression. Findings: Low-intensity running distance was significantly higher in players who did not experience injury throughout the duration of the study (t = 2.182, p = 0.037). The risk for in-game knee injury decreased with increasing distance covered while running at low speed (Odds Ratio = 0.8; 95% Confidence Interval = 0.6-1.0; χ2 = 3.964; p = 0.046). Improvements/Applications: These findings provide information useful for developing strategies for preventing sportsrelated injuries during field hockey competitions.