Epidemiological Characteristics of Pain Among Rowers: A Retrospective Questionnaire Study

This study aimed to analyze the distribution, incidence, and high-risk technical phases of pain among rowers aged 12-24 in China.

In 2024, a retrospective questionnaire survey was performed among 207 rowers. The questionnaire comprised four sections: (1) basic information; (2) rowing-related injury sites over the past year; (3) rowing-related pain sites over the past year; and (4) body locations of pain during rowing strokes in the past year and the specific technical phase when pain occurred. Pain was defined as any painful physical discomfort occurring while maintaining athletic capability. Rowing-related pain rate was standardized to rates per 1000 training sessions and per 1000 training hours, calculated using the Poisson distribution based on sex.

The overall pain rate was 24.2%, with 118 reported pain instances. The most common site was the lower back (16.1%), followed by the thigh and shoulder joint. The pain rate per 1000 training sessions was 1.94 (95% CI: 1.59-2.29), and per 1000 training hours was 0.41 (95% CI: 0.34-0.49). Both lower back and knee pain were significantly associated with the risk of shoulder pain. During rowing, approximately half of the athletes reported lower back pain, predominantly occurring during the drive phase.

Approximately one-quarter of Chinese rowers experienced pain during training, with low back pain being the most commonly reported. Both lower back and knee pain are significantly associated with shoulder pain risk; and pain during rowing most frequently occurs in the drive phase. This study provides a theoretical basis for enhancing early injury prevention, optimizing athletic performance, and guiding.