Prevalence of orthopaedic maladies in people who flyfish: an Internet-based survey

In this study, we define the prevalence of back and joint pains in people who flyfish. We use the Internet as a source of data. Requests for participation were posted on flyfishing Web sites. Eighty-nine people were surveyed (E-mail group). A control group of 42 flyfishing club members participated (Club group). Epidemiologic information, flyfishing data, and location of pain were collected. Low back pain in the 131 participants was 59%. No differences between the two groups in location or prevalence were noted. Saltwater fishermen had the highest rates of shoulder and elbow pain (31%). Trout fishermen had the highest rate of wrist pain (31%). Warmwater anglers had the least leg (12%), elbow (12%), and shoulder pain (18%). These afflictions mirror reports for other recreational activities. Low back pain was the most prevalent complaint, followed by wrist/hand and shoulder. Flyfishing subtypes have different rates and locations of pain, explained by equipment and technique. This report defines use of the Internet as a data source for research.