Analytical Study of Sports Injury Patterns and Their Causes among Students of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Garmian

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the most common patterns of sports injuries and determine the primary causes leading to their occurrence among fourth-year students in the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences. The research sample consisted of (58) fourth-year students from the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Garmian, Sulaymaniyah Governorate, during the academic year 2023–2024. A purposive sample of (27) students who had sustained sports injuries was selected, representing (46.55%) of the total study population. The mean age of the sample was (22.10) years with a standard deviation of (0.78). The mean height was (173.50) cm with a standard deviation of (5.20), while the mean body mass was (70.80) kg with a standard deviation of (6.40). Homogeneity among the sample participants was verified. Regarding research procedures, two questionnaire forms were developed: the first aimed to identify the types and locations of sports injuries, and the second aimed to determine the causes of these injuries. The results revealed that the most prominent causes of injuries were the lack of gradual progression in increasing training intensity and improper warm-up practices. Additionally, organizational factors—such as inadequate equipment and insufficient availability of sports tools—contributed to the occurrence of injuries during practical sessions. Injuries were found to be more concentrated in the lower extremities, particularly the ankle, indicating its high susceptibility to stress during physical performance. The study recommended emphasizing proper and progressive warm-up prior to physical activity, ensuring gradual increases in training intensity, providing adequate and functional equipment for practical sessions, and enhancing supervision and awareness regarding safety and injury prevention measures