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Takeoff forces transmitted to the upper extremity during water-skiing
Jeffrey P Keverline1, Richard Englund, Timothy E Cooney
1Carolina Orthopaedic Specialists, Lenoir, NC, USA.
Orthopedics
|July 24, 2003
Summary
Water-skiing takeoff forces were measured in male volunteers. Peak forces were lower with less power, but time under load increased, suggesting potential shoulder strain for those with pre-existing conditions.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Human Kinetics
Background:
- Limited data exists on upper extremity forces during water-skiing.
- Understanding these forces is crucial for injury prevention in water sports.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the forces exerted on the upper extremities during the water-skiing takeoff phase.
- To analyze the relationship between takeoff power and resultant forces.
Main Methods:
- Ten healthy male volunteers participated in the study.
- Measurements were taken during low, medium, and full-power water-skiing takeoffs.
- Forces acting on the upper extremities were quantified.
Main Results:
- Low-power takeoffs resulted in significantly lower peak forces (P < .0004).
- A trend towards greater time under load was observed with low-power takeoffs (P = .097).
- Estimated forces approximated 1.5 times the individual's body weight.
Conclusions:
- Water-skiing takeoff generates forces approximately 1.5 times body weight.
- Individuals with pre-existing shoulder conditions may be at increased risk of exacerbation.
- Further research is warranted to explore injury mechanisms and prevention strategies.