Knowledge and Attitude Towards Sports Injury Prevention and Management Regarding Sports-Playing College Students of South Gujarat: A Cross-sectional Study

Sports injuries are common among college students participating in sports and can significantly affect athletic performance, academic activities, and overall well-being. Adequate knowledge and a positive attitude toward sports injury prevention and management are essential for minimising injury risks and promoting safe participation in sports. The present study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude regarding sports injury prevention and management among sports-playing college students of South Gujarat. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 95 students aged 18–25 years who participated in sports activities at least three days per week. Data were collected using the Sports Injury Prevention and Management Scale (SIPM) through a structured Google Form. The findings revealed that 46.3% of participants demonstrated good knowledge, 40.0% had average knowledge, 5.3% had excellent knowledge, and 8.4% had poor knowledge. Regarding attitude, 69.5% exhibited a positive attitude, 26.3% showed a neutral attitude, and 4.2% demonstrated a negative attitude toward sports injury prevention and management. The study concludes that sports-playing college students possess generally good knowledge and positive attitudes; however, educational interventions are required to address existing gaps and improve safe sports participation.