Fracture Epidemiology in Skateboarding vs. Snowboarding.

Abstract

Background: Boarding sports, such as skateboarding and snowboarding, are associated with a significant risk of fractures. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, fracture locations, and treatment approaches for skateboarding and snowboarding-related fractures using data from the Swedish Fracture Register.

Purpose: To provide a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, fracture locations, and treatment modalities for fractures incurred during skateboarding and snowboarding.

Study design: Descriptive epidemiology study.

Level of evidence: Level 4.

Methods: This observational study included all patients registered in the Swedish Fracture Register who sustained fractures while snowboarding or skateboarding from January 2015 to December 2023. Variables studied were age, sex, trauma energy level, seasonal variation, fracture location (body part), and treatment modality.

Results: A total of 5155 patients (28% women) with 5446 fractures were included. Adults (≥16 years old) comprised 58% of all patients. The cohort experienced an approximately equal number of fractures from skateboarding (55%) and snowboarding (45%). A greater propensity for high-energy trauma injuries was observed among snowboarders and males. The mean age was similar in both groups, slightly above 20 years. Upper extremity fractures were the most common in both sports. However, discrepancies were noted: lower extremity fractures were more common in skateboarders, whereas injuries to the spine and pelvis were about 8 times more common in snowboarders. Specific injury patterns, such as the "snowboarder's fracture" and "skateboard elbow," appear unique to each sport.

Conclusion: While skateboarding and snowboarding share similarities, notable differences exist in lower extremity and spinal fractures. Furthermore, specific fracture patterns are characteristic of each sport. Understanding these differences is crucial for developing targeted prevention strategies and improving safety measures.