Competitive figure skating injuries

Abstract

The nature, type and frequency of injuries occurring at a national figure skating competition were examined. Data was compiled from the medical history form of all 208 participants and the on-site evaluations of the 55 skaters who presented for treatment. Twenty-six percent of all the skaters were injured during the competition. Senior skaters accounted for more injuries than their junior counterparts. Pairs skaters appeared to be more susceptible to injury, incurring significantly more injuries than singles or dance skaters. As in other reports, injuries to the lower extremities predominated. Low back injury comprised 14.6% of all injuries. Thirty-five (64%) of the 55 injuries were exacerbations of a pre-existing injury and twenty (36%) were new ones. Most competitive figure skating injuries are of the overuse type, suggesting a need to evaluate predisposing factors and methods of rehabilitation.