MEDICAL ASPECTS OF SURFCRAFT USAGE

Abstract

A prospective study of one year's duration on surfcraft-associated injuries recorded 399 injuries. The incidence and pattern observed was significantly different from results gathered in the same area five years earlier. The frequency of injury was found not to have increased as much as would have been expected from the increased popularity of board riding. The pattern of injury was also shown to have altered. It is concluded that, while occasional severe injuries occur, the use of surfcraft, particularly surfboards, constitutes a relatively risk-free sport.