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Binding function in relation to injury risk in downhill skiing.
L M Bouter1, P G Knipschild, A Volovics
1Department of Epidemiology and Health Care Research, University of Limburg, The Netherlands.
The American Journal of Sports Medicine
|March 1, 1989
Summary
Ski binding adjustment remains a significant risk factor for lower extremity (LE) injuries. Ensuring proper ski binding function through direct measurement is crucial for preventing skiing-related harm.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Previous time-trend studies indicate modern ski equipment, including functioning ski bindings, reduces injury rates.
- The potential for further injury reduction through improved ski binding adjustment requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if enhanced ski binding adjustment can further decrease injury figures among skiers.
- To identify specific factors related to ski binding function and their association with lower extremity (LE) injuries.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 1,148 Dutch skiers.
- Analysis of injury data, focusing on ski binding nonrelease events prior to lower extremity injury.
- Examination of factors such as adjustment methods, timing, personnel, and ski equipment status (rental/borrowed, type, age).
Main Results:
- Nonrelease of both ski bindings before injury significantly increased the risk of lower extremity (LE) injury (odds ratio = 3.3).
- The highest incidence of binding nonrelease (31%) occurred when adjustments were confirmed with a test device, particularly for knee injuries.
- Using rented or borrowed skis was associated with a higher risk of LE injury (odds ratio = 1.9).
Conclusions:
- Ski binding adjustment is identified as a modifiable risk factor for skiing injuries.
- Direct measurement of ski binding function is essential for effective injury prevention.
- Further experimental studies are recommended to assess the efficacy of interventions targeting improved binding adjustment.