Head injury mechanisms in FIS World Cup alpine and freestyle skiers and snowboarders. Issue 1 (13th November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Steenstrup, Sophie Elspeth; Bakken, Arnhild; Bere, Tone; Patton, Declan Alexander; Bahr, Roald
• Is Part Of: British journal of sports medicine. Volume 52:Issue 1(2018)
• Page Start: 61
• Page End: 69
• Publication Date: 2017-11-13
• Subjects: alpine skiing -- freestyle skiing -- snowboarding -- helmet -- head; Sports medicine -- Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2017-098240
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-3674

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: Head injuries represent a concern in skiing and snowboarding, with traumatic brain injuries being the most common cause of death. Aim: To describe the mechanisms of head and face injuries among World Cup alpine and freestyle skiers and snowboarders. Methods: We performed a qualitative analysis of videos obtained of head and face injuries reported through the International Ski Federation Injury Surveillance System during 10 World Cup seasons (2006–2016). We analysed 57 head impact injury videos (alpine n=29, snowboard n=13, freestyle n=15), first independently and subsequently in a consensus meeting. Results: During the crash sequence, most athletes (84%) impacted the snow with the skis or board first, followed by the upper or lower extremities, buttocks/pelvis, back and, finally, the head. Alpine skiers had sideways (45%) and backwards pitching falls (35%), with impacts to the rear (38%) and side (35%) of the helmet. Freestyle skiers and snowboarders had backwards pitching falls (snowboard 77%, freestyle 53%), mainly with impacts to the rear of the helmet (snowboard 69%, freestyle 40%). There were three helmet ejections among alpine skiers (10% of cases), and 41% of alpine skiing injuries occurred due to inappropriate gate contact prior to falling. Athletes had one (47%) or two (28%) head impacts, and the first impact was the most severe (71%). Head impacts were mainly on snow (83%) on a downward slope (63%). Conclusion: This study has identified several characteristics of the mechanisms of head injuries, which may be addressed to reduce risk.