Association between training load, intensity, and overuse problems during pre‐season in Icelandic male handball

Abstract

In this prospective cohort study, the aim was to examine any association between pre‐season training load and overuse problems (OP) in low back, knee, and shoulder in Icelandic elite male handball players. A total of 139 players participated, answering the OSTRC overuse questionnaire weekly during a 6‐week period. The training volume and intensity were registered by the coaches. The average weekly OP prevalence for shoulder was 40% (95% CI 36% to 44%), for knee 33% (95% CI 28% to 38%), and for low back 31% (95% CI 26% to 36%). Substantial overuse problems (SOP) were 14% (95% CI 11% to 17%) for shoulder, 11% (95% CI 10% to 12%) for knee, and 6% (95% CI 4% to 8%) for low back. The knee was most susceptible for OP with weekly number of training and training hours associated with OP and SOP. For individual training factors, running (OP; OR = 1.30, SOP; OR = 1.59), and shooting practice (OP; OR = 1.82, SOP; OR = 3.22) had the highest associations for knee problems. Jumping was associated with OP in low back (OR = 4.55). Handball players are most susceptible for OP in knees during their pre‐season. Every week, 30% participated with (SOP), affecting their performance and participation.