“The purpose of this study was to identify the
incidence, severity, location and type of acute
injuries in participants over a 12 month period
and in turn, to provide a foundation for injury
prevention strategies.
“With surfing hot spots becoming more
overcrowded and more surfers experimenting
with new surfing techniques such as aerial
manoeuvres, introducing effective preventative
measures to help reduce the injury rate is
becoming far more crucial. We have gathered the
data and we are now recruiting surfers to be part of
the next stage, which consists of comprehensive
physical assessments.”
During stage two of the study, surfers undergo
a thorough physiological assessment including
a VO2 max test to test the rate of oxygen
consumption and a full body composition
scan. Surfers are then assessed for flexibility
and strength through a range of physiotherapy
assessment techniques.
Through his research James has also observed
that competitive surfers are more likely to take part
in strength and conditioning training outside of
surfing than recreational surfers, but this doesn’t
mean pros are impervious to debilitating injuries.
“Aerial surfing has been gaining momentum and
this study has revealed that those who experiment
with aerial manoeuvres are more at risk of acute
injury, regardless of competitive status,” he said.
“Injuries reported were predominantly of muscular,
joint and skin origin, with joint and muscle injuries
being primarily a result of manoeuvres performed
and repetitive actions. There has also been an
increase in soft tissue sprains and strains, with
acute shoulder injuries commonly resulting from
paddling.
“The results have reinforced the importance of
being well conditioned when hitting the water,
regardless of the amount of time spent surfing. The
research may aid in reducing the occurrence of
injury through musculoskeletal screening and the
use of sports specific training and conditioning.”
Gold Coast surfer Freya Prumm, currently ranked
number 39 in the world, has also participated in
the study and says the results of the assessment
have helped her to improve her strength and
conditioning training for optimum performance in
the water.
“Being a part of this study was a huge step for me
in edging toward my surfing goals,” says Freya.
“After a thorough assessment by James and
his team, I was given informative feedback on
where my physical strengths and weaknesses lie.
Following a plan to address those weaknesses, I
immediately began enjoying improvements in the
water.” //
For details email James [email protected]