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In-Line Skating Injuries

Epidemiology and Recommendations for Prevention

Sports Medicine volume 19, pages 427–432 (1995)Cite this article

Summary

In 1993 there was an estimated 12.6 million in-line skaters in the US. In-line skating is popular because of its affordability and its exercise and recreational value. The main risk factors for injury include speed, obstacles and hard surfaces. Using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System in US hospitals, 31 000 skaters were reported injured over a 12 month period. Fractures, dislocations, sprains, strains and avulsion made up 67% of all injuries. It is recommended that skaters wear protection equipment including, helmet, wrist guards, knee-pads and elbow-pads. Although head injuries from skating appear low in numbers, helmet protection is also recommended. Further studies are required that assess risk factors for injury and environmental and behavioural aspects.

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Affiliations

  1. Division of Unintentional Injury Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Public Health Service, US Department of Health and Human Services, MS K-63, 4770 Buford Highway NE, Atlanta, Georgia, 30341-3724, USA

    Richard A. Schieber & Christine M. Branche-Dorsey

Authors
  1. Richard A. Schieber
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  2. Christine M. Branche-Dorsey
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Schieber, R.A., Branche-Dorsey, C.M. In-Line Skating Injuries. Sports Med 19, 427–432 (1995). https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-199519060-00006

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-199519060-00006

Keywords

  • Assess Risk Factor
  • Protective Gear
  • Wrist Injury
  • Consumer Product Safety Commission
  • Poison Prevention