MedicineInjury PreventionSports MedicineOrthopedic Sports MedicineSports Injury PreventionSports RehabilitationInjury Risk ReductionSports InjuriesRetrospective Case StudySliding MotionSports Injury DataSports Injury Epidemiology
In a previous retrospective study, base sliding was found to be responsible for 71% of recreational softball injuries. As most injuries occurred following rapid deceleration impact against stationary bases, quick-release (breakaway) bases were evaluated as a means to modify this mechanism of injury. Six hundred thirty-three softball games were played on breakaway-base fields and 627 games were played on stationary-base fields. Forty-five sliding injuries (7%) occurred on the stationary-base diamonds and only two sliding injuries (<1%) occurred on the breakaway-base fields. Implementing the use of breakaway bases in recreational softball leagues could potentially achieve a significant, cost-effective reduction of injuries. (<i>JAMA</i>1988;259:1848-1850)