Risk Factors for Hamstring Strain Injury in Male College American Football Players -A Prospective Cohort Study

Background Given the frequency of hamstring strain injuries (HSI) among male college American football players, several studies have attempted to determine whether certain risk factors that can predict their occurrence. However, no consensus has yet been reached on predictive risk factors for hamstring strain injuries in male college American football players. This study aimed to clarify risk factors for HSI prospectively in college male American football players. Methods A total of 78 male college American football players, whose positions were limited to skill positions, were medically assessed for potential risk factors of HSI. The preseason medical assessment included anthropometric measurements, joint laxity and flexibility, muscle flexibility, muscle strength, and balance ability. Results HSI occurred in a total of 25 thighs from 25 players (32.1%). Injured players had significantly lower hamstring flexibility (p = 0.02) and hamstring to quadriceps strength ratio(H/Q) (p = 0.047) compared to uninjured players. Additionally, injured players had significantly lower general joint laxity scores, especially for the total (p = 0.04), hip (p = 0.007), and elbow (p = 0.04) scores, compared to uninjured players. Conclusions Lower hamstring flexibility, lower hamstring to quadriceps strength ratio, and lower general joint laxity score were identified as risk factors for HSI in male college American football players placed in skill positions. These findings could be useful in preventing HSI among such players.