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[Injuries in parasailing. A collective GOTS study].
M Krüger-Franke1, W Pförringer
1Staatliche Orthopädische Klinik, München-Harlaching.
Summary
Paragliding injuries are rising, with lower extremities most at risk during landing. Improved training and equipment are crucial for paraglider safety.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Traumatology
Background:
- Paragliding regulations were established in Germany in 1987.
- Increasing participation in paragliding has led to a rise in reported injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence, localization, and severity of paragliding-related injuries.
- To identify high-risk phases and body parts for paragliding injuries.
Main Methods:
- An epidemiologic study documenting 218 paragliding injuries.
- Data collected from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland between January 1, 1987, and December 31, 1989.
- Analysis of injury localization, age, treatment, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- The majority of injuries (181) occurred during landing.
- Lower extremities (41.3%) and spine (33.9%) were the most common injury sites.
- Over half of injuries required surgery, with 54 cases resulting in permanent disability.
Conclusions:
- The landing phase poses the greatest risk for lower extremity injuries in paragliding.
- Enhanced training in landing techniques, including crash scenarios, is essential.
- Appropriate equipment, such as sturdy footwear, can help mitigate injury frequency.