Injury prevention in kids' adventure and extreme sports: future directions

Abstract

Youth have very high participation and injury rates across sport and recreational activities, including in adventure and extreme sports. Sport and recreation is the leading cause of injury in youth and may lead to lower levels of physical activity, higher adiposity, and long-term consequences such as overweight/obesity, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, and post-concussion syndrome which can adversely affect future health. Injuries are predictable and preventable in youth sport, including adventure and extreme sport. However, injury prevention strategies can have a significant impact in reducing the number and severity of injuries in many sports. This article provides an evidence-informed overview on what is known about injury prevention strategies which have been evaluated in youth adventure and extreme sports. Recommendations to contribute to effective and sustainable injury prevention in youth adventure and extreme sports have been summarized.

Keywords: Injury prevention; adventure; athletic injury; child and adolescent; extreme sport; outdoor sport; recreation; sport.