Comparative Analysis of in-Competition Sports Injuries in Different Taekwondo Tournaments: Seniors, Juniors and Para-Taekwondo

Objective: Taekwondo is a combat sport that combines physical skill and strategic thinking that carries a risk of injury due to its high-paced, contact-based nature. This study analyzed injury incidence and characteristics in senior (STC), junior (JTC), and para-taekwondo (PTC) championships in Türkiye. The aim was to identify injury patterns and guide prevention strategies. Materials and Methods: Data were collected using the International Olympic Committee's 'Daily Report on Injuries and Illness' form by sports medicine physicians present at the tournaments. Variables included injury type, affected body part, mechanism, and whether athletes could continue competing. Data were analyzed retrospectively. Results: In STC, 232 injuries occurred among 222 athletes, with a mean age of 19.4 ± 2.4 years and sports experience of 10.0 ± 3.1 years. In JTC, 234 injuries were recorded in 232 athletes, with a mean age of 16.0 ± 1.1 years and sports experience of 6.0 ± 1.5 years. In PTC, 31 injuries were reported among 30 athletes, with a mean age of 22.0 ± 5.9 years and sports experience of 6.4 ± 2.9 years. Injury incidence was highest in PTC (40.8/100 clinical; 469.7/1000 competitions), followed by STC (18.9/100 clinical; 191.4/1000 competitions) and JTC (9.4/100 clinical; 100.9/1000 competitions). Male athletes were injured more frequently in all tournaments, but female injuries were proportionally higher in JTC. Contusions were the most common injury type, and lower extremity injuries were most frequent across all tournaments. However, head and trunk injuries were more common in JTC. The primary injury mechanism was contact with another athlete, with no significant differences between groups. The ability to continue competing after injury did not differ significantly across tournaments. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, we strongly recommend improving taekwondo competition rules, developing on-site medical systems, and implementing strategic plans and safety measures for injury prevention, especially in para-taekwondo competitions. These steps may help athletes, coaches and federations create safer environments, and support long-term athlete health and performance.