Related Experiment Videos
Health issues for surfers
Todd B Zoltan1, Kenneth S Taylor, Suraj A Achar
1Los Angeles Free Clinic, CA 90028, USA. tzoltan@lafreeclinic.org
American Family Physician
|July 8, 2005
Summary
Surfing poses risks including acute injuries like sprains and fractures, and chronic issues such as sun damage. Common surfing injuries often result from the surfboard itself, with infections treatable by antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Environmental Health
- Dermatology
Background:
- Surfing is a popular water sport with inherent risks.
- Surfers experience both acute traumatic injuries and chronic conditions from environmental exposure.
- Common injuries include sprains, lacerations, strains, and fractures, often caused by the surfboard.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the spectrum of injuries and medical conditions associated with surfing.
- To highlight common hazards and their management.
- To inform surfers and healthcare providers about surfing-related health risks.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on surfing injuries and medical conditions.
- Categorization of injuries by type (trauma, environmental exposure, otologic).
- Discussion of common treatment modalities and preventative measures.
Main Results:
- Traumatic injuries like sprains and fractures are prevalent, with surfboard impact being a key mechanism.
- Environmental exposures lead to jellyfish stings, seabather's eruption, and increased skin cancer risk.
- Otologic problems such as exostoses and otitis externa are common, alongside risks from marine life encounters.
Conclusions:
- Surfing presents a range of health risks, from physical trauma to dermatological and otologic issues.
- Awareness and appropriate management are crucial for mitigating surfing-related injuries and conditions.
- Preventative strategies, including sun protection and awareness of marine hazards, are essential for surfer safety.