Prevalence and Risk Factors of Upper Extremity Injuries in Indoor Bouldering: A Cross-Sectional Study.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the prevalence and risk factors associated with upper extremity injuries among indoor bouldering practitioners, focusing on dynamic movements and specific training methods.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study with 35 indoor bouldering climbers from a metropolitan area. Data were collected through an adapted online questionnaire and in-person orthopedic evaluations by certified specialists. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 18 (StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX), calculating the prevalence of pain and injuries and associations between dynamic movements and specific injuries.

RESULTS

The sample was predominantly male (80%, n = 28/35), with a mean age of 25.9 years. Shoulder anterior apprehension was significantly associated with dynamic climbing styles (p = 0.028), with a prevalence difference of 0.3 (95% CI: 0.04, 0.57). Finger pulley and shoulder injuries affected 22.9% (n = 8/35) and 25.7% (n = 9/35) of participants, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found a significant association between dynamic movements and upper extremity injuries in bouldering climbers, highlighting the pressing need for injury prevention strategies. Despite climbing being an overhead sport, our findings suggest distinct pathophysiology from the thrower's shoulder, necessitating further investigation.