Injury prevalence and characteristics among tennis coaches in the Netherlands : a cross-sectional survey

Abstract

OBJECTIVES : To describe the prevalence and characteristics of injuries among tennis coaches in the Netherlands and examine associations with individual and occupational factors. METHODS : In this cross-sectional survey, all 1902 licensed tennis coaches in the Netherlands were invited to complete an online questionnaire. Data were collected on injuries during a 2-year recall period, as well as mental health problems, pain-medication use, healthcare utilisation and work-related characteristics. RESULTS : 900 coaches (74.8% men) completed the survey and 37% reported at least one injury in the previous 2 years. Injuries most frequently affected the lower back (19.5%), shoulder (12.0%), knee (11.6%), neck (7.4%) and elbow (6.2%), with overuse injuries accounting for the largest proportion. Injury prevalence did not differ significantly between male and female coaches. Coaches reporting injuries were taller and had a higher body mass index than uninjured coaches, although differences were small. Approximately one-third of coaches reported that injuries interfered with their ability to teach or play tennis. Pain medication use during tennis instruction was reported by 23% of coaches. Among coaches with health problems, 35% consulted a physiotherapist, 35% a general practitioner and 9% attended an emergency department. CONCLUSIONS : Musculoskeletal injuries are common among tennis coaches and most frequently affect the lower back and lower extremities. Many coaches continue teaching despite ongoing injuries and functional complaints, often accompanied by substantial healthcare utilisation and pain medication use. These findings provide insight into the musculoskeletal health burden associated with tennis coaching and highlight the need to include coaches in tennis injury prevention initiatives.