Analytical methods for studying sports injuries

Abstract

The selection of the appropriate type of design is also essential in gathering the optimal information that correctly reflects the truth. As is true in all fields of medicine, for sports injury studies independent of the type of the design, the appropriate statistical analysis of each study is the final necessary step in drawing correct inferences from the observed data. Determining the extent of the role of chance on whether the study findings represent the life situation is the main focus of the statistical analysis. Before deciding which statistical method would be proper to use in the study, one has to determine the scales or the variables, their distribution, the relatedness of the data and the specific aims of the analysis. This chapter explains these important issues necessary to understand the selection process of appropriate methods for analysis, as well as statistical concepts important in the design of the study and the reporting of the results.