Sportverletzung Sportschaden : Organ der Gesellschaft für Orthopädisch-Traumatologische Sportmedizin
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Aim of this study was to analyse the mechanisms of kitesurfing injuries. For this purpose we performed a survey among 72 kitesurfers in the north of Germany. 31 accidents have been registrated among all 72 athletes during the 2001 season. 3 additional accidents occurred where a windsurfer got injured. 5 athletes had medium injuries such as fractures, all remaining athletes presented with minor injuries, that did not require medical treatment. The incidence of medium kite injuries was 1/1000 hours; the incidence of minor kite injuries was 5/1000 hours. ⋯ Kitesurfing is a new rapidly growing sport. To date the risk potential of this new sport is unclear. The analysis of the injury mechanisms allows conclusion regarding the prevention of kitesurfing injuries.