Injuries Among Adolescent Water Polo Players: Demographics, Evaluation, and Management

Background: The combination of swimming, throwing, and physical contact in water polo places players at risk for a range of injuries. Prior research has demonstrated high rates of head and shoulder injuries among competitive water polo players. However, there is limited injury data regarding adolescent water polo players. Methods: We identified patients under the age of 18 with water polo-related concerns treated at the sports medicine divisions at our institution across a five-year span. History, physical examination, imaging, diagnoses, and treatment outcomes were recorded. Results: We identified 56 adolescent water polo players (mean age = 15.3 years). Injuries to the shoulder (23) and head (11) were most common. Concussion (11), rotator cuff pathology (8), shoulder instability (6), and scapular pathology (6) were the most common diagnoses. Mechanisms of injury included throwing (14), swimming (12), and physical contact with opponents or the ball (12). The most frequently employed diagnostic evaluation protocol included a history and physical exam with an x-ray (18). Physical therapy (40) and rest from sports (29) were the most frequently recommended treatments with surgery being rarely indicated (6). Conclusions: Among our cohort of patients, injuries to the head and shoulder were the most commonly seen in adolescent water polo players. Throwing, swimming, and acute unexpected contact were all frequently described by patients as contributing to their injuries. Providers and coaches should be aware of the unique physical demands of water polo as well as the most common injuries and medical management of these athletes.