• Full Name: SAMUEL LING
• Affiliation/Institution: CUHK
• Country: Hong Kong S.A.R.

• Full Name: WING CHING LEUNG
• Affiliation/Institution: Hong Kong Sports Institute
• Country: Hong Kong S.A.R.

Purpose: This study investigated the epidemiology of acute sports injuries among elite fencers in Hong Kong, with emphasis on the unique injury risks associated with fencing’s specialized techniques and equipment.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 61 elite fencers from the Hong Kong Sports Institute over one competitive season (October 2022–October 2023). Injury data were collected and analyzed to determine incidence rates, injury types, anatomical locations, mechanisms, and time-loss outcomes.

Results: A total of 182 injuries were recorded, yielding an overall incidence rate of 2.84 per 1,000 training hours (95% CI: 2.43–3.26). Sabre fencers demonstrated the highest injury rate (3.17 per 1,000 hours, 95% CI: 2.47–3.86), followed by Épée (3.05, 95% CI: 2.26–3.83) and Foil (2.23, 95% CI: 1.57–2.88). Sprains (39.0%) and strains (28.6%) predominated, with the hand (16.5%), ankle (13.7%), and knee (10.4%) as the most frequently affected regions. Non-contact injuries (44.5%) were mainly to the lower extremities (60.5%), while contact injuries (26.4%) predominantly involved the upper limbs. “Landing” and “collision” were the most common injury mechanisms. Time-loss occurred in 5.5% of injuries, typically 8–12 days in duration, chiefly due to strains (40%) and concussions (30%). No significant sex-based differences were found (RR: 0.995, 95% CI: 0.74–1.33, p = 0.974).

Conclusions: Elite fencers in Hong Kong sustained injuries at a rate of 2.84 per 1,000 training hours, primarily non-contact sprains and strains of the lower extremities. Sabre fencers had the highest incidence, though time-loss injuries were infrequent (5.5%), reflecting generally mild injury severity. Targeted preventive strategies should prioritize sabre-specific demands and lower extremity protection.