Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe the relative frequency, pattern, and mechanism
of surfing injuries. Descriptive data of surfing injuries was collected by using a
Web site-based interactive multiple choice survey. Data was collected from May 1998
to August 1999. Completed surveys were obtained from 1,348 individuals reporting 1,237
acute injuries and 477 chronic injuries. Lacerations accounted for 42% of all acute
injuries, contusions 13%, sprains/strains 12%, and fractures 8%. Thirty-seven percent
of acute injuries were to the lower extremity, and 37% to the head and neck. Fifty-five
percent of injuries resulted from contact with ones own board, 12% from another surfer's
board, and 17% from the sea floor. Sixty-seven percent of acute surfing injuries are
caused by board contact. Older surfers, more expert surfers, and those surfing large
waves have a higher relative risk for significant injury. Equipment modifications
are suggested that may decrease the risk for injury. (Am J Emerg Med 2002;20:155-160.
Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.)
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Article Info
Publication History
Accepted:
July 15,
2001
Received:
July 15,
2001
Footnotes
☆Address reprint requests to Andrew Nathanson, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903. E-mail: [email protected]
☆☆0735-6757/02/2003-0004$35.00/0
Identification
Copyright
© 2002 Published by Elsevier Inc.
