Epidemiology of Hip Injuries in the National Basketball Association: A 24-Year Overview

Epidemiology of Hip Injuries in the National Basketball Association: A 24-Year Overview

Authors

Jackson TJ, Starkey C, McElhiney D, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1177/2325967113499130

Purpose

To describe the incidence, types, and impact of pelvis, hip, and thigh injuries in NBA players over 24 years.

Methods

Retrospective review of injury records from the NBA database (1988–2012), analyzing injury types, timing, mechanism, games missed, and surgical treatment.

Key Findings

• 2852 injuries recorded, representing 14.6% of all athletic injuries.
• Most injuries occurred during games (61.2%).
• Quadriceps strains and contusions were the most common injuries.
• Hamstring strains were the most frequent type of strain.
• Average time lost per injury was 6.3 days.
• Strains were more likely in the preseason.

Conclusion

Pelvis, hip, and thigh injuries are a significant and common problem for professional basketball players, primarily involving extra-articular muscle strains and contusions.

What this means for patients

Understanding common hip and thigh injuries can help athletes and trainers focus on prevention and appropriate treatment, potentially reducing time lost to injury and improving athletic performance.