Surfboard-riding injuries.

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Injury Epidemiology
• Ocean Sports Safety

Background:

• Surfing is a popular water sport with inherent risks of injury.
• Previous studies often relied on retrospective data, potentially underestimating injury incidence and types.
• Understanding the direct causes and patterns of surfing injuries is crucial for prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the nature, rate, and causes of traumatic surfing injuries.
• To gather injury data directly from surfers for a more accurate assessment.
• To identify specific injury types and their association with surfing activities and equipment.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 346 surfers of diverse ages, experience levels, and skill proficiencies.
• Collection of injury data over a two-year period, directly from the participating surfers.
• Categorization of injuries based on type, severity, and cause, distinguishing between those requiring medical attention or causing inability to surf.

Main Results:

• A total of 337 injuries were reported by the surfers during the study period.
• Lacerations (41%) and soft-tissue injuries (35%) were the most frequent injuries.
• A previously unreported high incidence of back and shoulder sprains and strains was observed.
• The rate of moderate to severe injuries was calculated at 3.5 per 1000 surfing days.
• Over 25% of lacerations were attributed to direct contact with surfboard fins, tail, or nose.

Conclusions:

• Surfing is associated with a significant rate of injuries, particularly lacerations and soft-tissue trauma.
• Specific injury patterns, such as back and shoulder sprains, warrant further attention.
• A substantial portion of lacerations are caused by the surfboard itself, indicating a need for potential safety modifications in board design or construction.
• Direct data collection from surfers provides valuable insights into injury epidemiology in this sport.