A prospective study of knee ultrasound findings in asymptomatic football players in the Uganda Premier League

Abstract Background: Asymptomatic knee injuries in football players are a concern in sports medicine, as they can have short-term and long-term effects on a footballer’s career. These knee injuries require special investigations for identification. This study aimed to describe the ultrasound findings and factors associated with injury in the asymptomatic knees of football players in the Uganda Premier League. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving Uganda Premier League football players. A total of 398 players had their knees examined with ultrasound machines to detect any obvious abnormalities. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with abnormal knee findings on ultrasound. Results: Abnormal ultrasound findings were observed in 44 (13.6%) football players, with medial collateral ligament tear being the most common abnormality, followed by medial meniscus and distal biceps tendon injuries. In multivariate analysis, abnormal sonographic findings were significantly associated with shorter footballers [<1.7 meters] (aOR=5.287, CI=2.158-12.952, P=0.001) and those with a history of knee injuries (aOR=1.623, CI=0.205-1.892, P=0.042). Conclusion: Despite the absence of symptoms, knee ultrasound revealed multiple hidden knee injuries. Therefore, we recommend conducting ultrasound screenings every two years for all asymptomatic football players in UPL and other major leagues.