Epidemiology of injuries in kitesurfing

Introduced in the mid-1990s and recently recognized as an Olympic sport, kitesurfing combines surfing, windsurfing, and wakeboarding. Despite its growing popularity and high-speed maneuvers that heighten injury risks, there is a significant gap in research on the epidemiological aspects of injuries. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence, patterns, and factors related to orthopedic injuries among kitesurfers. The secondary outcomes focus on characteristics associated with injuries, treatment options, duration of absence from sports, and subsequent effects on performance. These findings underscore the urgent need for developing effective safety protocols to mitigate these risks.

This cross-sectional study utilized a convenience sample of kitesurfing athletes aged 18 years or older, each with at least one year of experience, recruited through the Brazilian Kitesurfing Association. Participants completed an online questionnaire detailing their personal details, kitesurfing specifics and injury-related data.

A total of 442 kitesurfers, aged 18 to 70 (mean 41.9 years), were included. Findings show that 66.6% of athletes reported injuries, more frequently among more experienced, especially those classifying themselves as advanced. Most injuries occurred during training within 50 meters of the shore, under moderate wind speeds (11-27 knots), and mainly affected the knee, foot, or ankle.

The findings highlight the necessity for improved safety protocols and injury prevention measures in kitesurfing. Given the sport's rising popularity and inherent risks, these measures are crucial to reduce injury rates and mitigate their impact on performance and sport continuity. Additionally, kitesurfing's Olympic inclusion underscores the importance of global safety concerns.