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Australian snowboard injury data base study. A four-year prospective study
C Bladin1, P Giddings, M Robinson
1Victorian Ski Association, Australia.
The American Journal of Sports Medicine
|September 1, 1993
Summary
Snowboarding injuries are common, especially fractures and sprains, with novices experiencing more upper limb injuries. Beginners should use soft-shell boots and take lessons to prevent snowboarding accidents.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
- Traumatology
Background:
- Limited data exists on the incidence and patterns of snowboarding injuries.
- Understanding injury types and risk factors is crucial for prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the incidence and patterns of snowboarding injuries.
- To analyze injury variations based on skill level and footwear.
- To compare snowboarding injuries with skiing injuries.
Main Methods:
- A 4-year prospective study conducted at three Australian ski resorts.
- Collected data on 276 snowboarding injuries and concurrent ski injury data.
- Analyzed injury types, locations, and correlations with rider skill and boot type.
Main Results:
- Snowboarders sustained 2.4 times more fractures than skiers, particularly in the upper limbs.
- Lower limb injuries were most common (57%), followed by upper limb (30%), with sprains (53%) and fractures (24%) predominating.
- Novices had more upper limb fractures and knee injuries; intermediate/advanced riders had more ankle injuries.
- Soft-shell boots correlated with more ankle injuries, while hard-shell boots correlated with knee injuries and distal tibial fractures.
Conclusions:
- Snowboarding carries a significant risk of fractures, especially for novices.
- Footwear choice and skill level influence injury patterns.
- Recommendations include using hybrid or soft-shell boots and seeking professional instruction for novice snowboarders to mitigate injury risk.