Predictors of injury among adult recreational in-line skaters: a multicity study.

Abstract

This study examined risk factors for injury, injury prevalence, safety gear use, and skating habits of adult recreational in-line skaters. Randomly selected in-line skaters in 6 major US cities were interviewed. Only 6% of skaters consistently wore all 4 recommended types of safety gear. Skaters with greater skating experience were more likely to perform tricks, wear less safety gear, and sustain an injury. More experienced adult recreational in-line skaters are at increased risk for injury. Safety gear use in alarmingly low in adult recreational in-line skaters, especially experienced skaters. Safe skating education programs should consider targeting this newly recognized at-risk skating population.