Sport-Specific Expertise Drives Provider Choice Among Injured Rock Climbers

IntroductionMusculoskeletal injuries from rock climbing are increasing as participation rates rise. It is important to understand climbers' injury treatment decisions and trust in providers to improve communication, education, and care pathways. The purpose of this study was to examine healthcare-seeking behaviors and healthcare-provider trust among rock climbers following injury.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was distributed online via social media, email, and flyers. In total, 145 rock climbers who sustained a climbing-related musculoskeletal injury completed the survey. Outcomes included type of provider seen, reasons for provider choice or delay in care, and ratings of trust and satisfaction. Free-text comments were analyzed for themes.ResultsClimbers commonly sought care from physical or occupational therapists (PT/OTs; 31.7%), followed by specialists (24.1%) and primary care providers (PCPs; 16.6%, P<0.001). PT/OTs were more likely to be accessed virtually and through peer recommendation, whereas PCP visits often were assigned by the health system. Delays in care were common (68.3%) and attributed to cost, time constraints, and confidence in self-treatment. Pulley injuries were associated with delayed care and reliance on self-treatment. Trust/satisfaction ratings were highest for PT/OTs (median trust 9, satisfaction 9) and specialists (trust 9, satisfaction 8) compared with PCPs (trust 6, satisfaction 6; P=0.02 and P=0.002, respectively). Free-text responses emphasized the importance of climbing-specific expertise and individualized treatment plans.ConclusionsTrust and satisfaction with healthcare providers vary based on sport-specific knowledge and treatment recommendations. Delayed care and self-management are common, especially for finger injuries. PT/OTs often serve as both initial and final providers.