[Roller skating accidents. A registry and questionnaire study]

At the University Hospital of Odense DK an increasing number of roller skating injuries has been observed, and a total of 283 injuries were registered in 1996. They all received a questionnaire in order to obtain information about: The differences between users of conventional and in-line roller skaters in pattern of injury, to what extent safety gear was used and occurrence of "splint-top" fractures. Eighty-seven percent were returned. It showed that "in-liners" and conventional roller skaters showed no statistical differences in pattern of injury. Accidents occurred at low speed. Twenty-nine percent used protective gear. There was a significantly lower rate of injuries to the hand and wrist when wrist guards were used. Splint-top fractures were not observed. Increasing experience seems to lower the incidence of fractures. An increase in the use of protective gear seems to occur following an injury.