This is an archive copy of a document originally located at   http://www.sport.vic.gov.au/web/srv/srvsite.nsf/pages/research_injury_snowboarding?OpenDocument all copyright remains with creator.

See other sports injury prevention fact sheets.

• Australia has about 20,000 snowboard users.
• The estimated growth rate of 20% exceeds that of other alpine sports.
• More than 95% of Australian ski resorts now allow snowboarding and excellent facilities are provided.

Although snowboarders of all ages and levels of experience are injured, males aged 20 years and novices are the most commonly injured snowboarders.

The cause and type of injuries

• Falls are the most common cause of injury.
• Injuries are most commonly sprains, fractures and contusions. The majority of injuries are to the upper limbs, followed by the lower limbs.
• Ninety-one percent of lower limb injuries are to the leading leg.
• Ankle injuries are more common among snowboarders wearing soft shell boots, which are typically worn by intermediate and advanced riders.
• Knee and distal tibial fractures are more common in snowboarders wearing hard shell boots, which are typically worn by novices.

• Undertake pre-season conditioning and training.
• Prospective snowboarders should undertake lessons to learn correct riding and falling techniques.
• Establish what the snow conditions are like, don't ride in poor conditions.
• Equipment: suitability and maintenance
• Choose carefully equipment to suit your skill level and size.
• Soft shell boots are recommended for novices.

• Ensure all rental equipment is properly fitted and adjusted.
• Wear clothing, including gloves, that is waterproof and breathes and head coverings to prevent excessive heat loss.
• Wear wristguards or gloves with wrist reinforcement.
• Increase safety with sound techniques and practice
• Be aware of, and adhere to, general snow conduct and safety codes.
• Only snowboard on slopes suitable to your level of ability.
• Stay on main trails and groomed runs.
• Be cautious if boarding in deep powder among trees. Never do this alone.
• Young or beginner riders should be well supervised.

Ensure all injured snowboarders receive adequate treatment and rehabilitation before resuming snowboarding.

For further information contact:

Skiing Australia (Victorian Branch),
Mailbag 6, 120 Collins Street,
Melbourne 3000.
Ph: (03) 9650 7270

Accident Research Centre,
Monash University,
Building 70, Wellington Road,
Clayton, Vic. 3168
Ph: (03) 9905 1808

Dr. C. Bladin,
Australian Snowboard Injury Data Base Study,
62 Erin Street,
Richmond, 3121.
Fax: (03) 9427 7929.
Email: 100355.1702@compuserve.com.

http://www.general.monash.edu.au/muarc

For copies of the printed brochure contact:

Sport and Recreation Victoria
GPO Box 2392V
Melbourne Vic 3000
Tel: 03 9666 4267
Fax: 03 9666 4300

References

Bladin C, McCrory P. Snowboarding injuries. An overview. Sports Med 1995; 19 (5): 358-364
Kelsall H, Finch C. A review of countermeasures for snowboarding injuries. Monash University Accident Research Centre. Report No. 94. 1996.

Acknowledgments

Illustrations by Debbie Mourtzious, Education Resource Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne (not available in the on-line version).

This project was funded by Sport and Recreation Victoria and a Research Fellowship from the Public Health Research and Development Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council and Public Health Division, Department of Human Services.