772 BO19 – Prevalence, incidence, and risk factors of hip and groin problems in female soccer players: a full season prospective cohort study

Background Hip and groin problems are common in soccer. However, most studies have focused on male players and primarily used a time-loss injury definition. Despite the increasing popularity of women's soccer, data on female players remain limited. Objective To investigate the prevalence, incidence, and potential risk factors of hip and groin problems in female soccer players during a competitive season. Design Prospective cohort study Setting Elite-level Swiss women's soccer league Participants 61 female players from three teams, aged 18 to 40, who played competitive soccer during last season were included. The study recorded 11 dropouts. Assessment of Risk Factors Previous season's hip and groin problems; Hip and groin function using the Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS); Isometric hip adductor and abductor muscle strength Main Outcome Measurements Biweekly and seasonal prevalence of hip and groin problems (Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Overuse Questionnaire); Incidence rate and injury burden of time-loss hip and groin injuries per 1000 training/match hours; Risk factor analysis Results 45 hip and groin problems were recorded in 37 players, with five problems resulting in time-loss. Average biweekly and seasonal prevalence was 14.2% and 60.7%, respectively. The incidence rate was 0.5 time-loss injuries, while injury burden was 11 days of time-loss per 1000 training/match hours. There was an increased risk for players with hip and groin problems in the previous season (OR,5.23; 95%CI,1.90–15.90; P=.002) and older age (OR,1.15; 95%CI,1.03–1.29; P=.014), while higher HAGOS sport subscale scores indicated a reduced risk (OR,0.57; 95%CI,0.36–0.90; P=.016). However, hip adduction strength showed no significant association with hip and groin problems. Conclusion This study underlines the high prevalence of hip and groin problems in female soccer. Players with previous hip and groin problems, older age and lower HAGOS sport subscale scores may be at an increased risk, but further larger studies are warranted.