Work

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Upper Extremity Injuries in Indoor Bouldering: A Cross-Sectional Study

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To describe the prevalence and risk factors associated with upper extremity injuries among indoor bouldering practitioners, focusing on dynamic movements and specific training methods. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 35 indoor bouldering climbers from a metropolitan area. Data were collected through an adapted online questionnaire and in-person orthopedic evaluations by certified specialists. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 18 (StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX), calculating the prevalence of pain and injuries and associations between dynamic movements and specific injuries. RESULTS: The sample was predominantly male (80%, n = 28/35), with a mean age of 25.9 years. Shoulder anterior apprehension was significantly associated with dynamic climbing styles (p = 0.028), with a prevalence difference of 0.3 (95% CI: 0.04, 0.57). Finger pulley and shoulder injuries affected 22.9% (n = 8/35) and 25.7% (n = 9/35) of participants, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our study found a significant association between dynamic movements and upper extremity injuries in bouldering climbers, highlighting the pressing need for injury prevention strategies. Despite climbing being an overhead sport, our findings suggest distinct pathophysiology from the thrower's shoulder, necessitating further investigation.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.69729

Authors: Lucas Mena, Leonardo Zanesco, Jorge H Assunção, Caio Checchia, Mauro Gracitelli, Eduardo A Malavolta

Institutions: Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, DASA (Brazil), Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Hospital do Coração

Language: English

Topic: Sports injuries and prevention

Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4402637889