Injuries and risk factors in an 18-day Marine winter mountain training exercise

Abstract

Objectives: This study determined the incidence of and risk factors for injuries among 356 Marines during a winter mountain training exercise.

Methods: Marines received a podiatry screening and completed a questionnaire on race, education, tobacco use, height, weight, and fitness (4.8-km run, sit-ups, pull-ups).

Results: Forty-five Marines (12.6%) reported at least one injury each, 68.9% of which were traumatic injuries. Total injuries resulted in 114 days of limited duty time. A final foot examination (N = 141) revealed 118 injuries (82.2% blisters and abrasions, 11.9% frostnip). White ethnicity was a risk factor for overall injuries, and forefoot varus alignment was a risk factor for traumatic injuries. Lower education and rank and smokeless tobacco use were associated with foot injuries. The Marine ski-march leather boot and smoking were related to foot cold injuries.

Conclusions: Military winter training is associated with injuries and lost training time. Risk factors were identified, suggesting that these injuries may be preventable.