Injury Prevention in Handball

Abstract

Knowledge regarding prevention of injuries in handball has improved substantially in the last 10-15 years. We know more about who is injured, how the injury happens and, most importantly, how acute lower extremity injuries, including ACL injuries, can be prevented. As much as 50% of these acute injuries can be prevented by introducing neuromuscular training and structured warm-up programmes. We know less about prevention of overuse injuries in handball. However, evidence regarding the burden and aetiology of shoulder injuries is increasing, and recently an exercise prevention programme was found to reduce the prevalence and the risk for overuse shoulder injuries in handball.