A study of schoolgirl's perceptions of injury associated with rowing

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and reported type of injury in senior level schoolgirl rowers over the 2004-2005 rowing season. Data was gathered via survey and it was found that 18% of rowers sustained injuries (n=34), of this group 18 were sweep rowers and 16 were scull rowers. There was a difference in injury pattern between sweep and scull rowing. Lumbar and shoulder injuries were more prevalent in sweep rowers. Previous research suggests lumbar spine injuries are the most common injury in rowing and this research supported this with 32% (n=12) of injuries to the lumbar spine. Shoulder injuries were the second most common injury (18%). Apart from illness, shoulder and low back injury caused the greatest amount of time off training. Research shows that whilst most injuries occur due to rowing itself, injuries can be sustained during cross training. Our research showed that rowing caused the most number of injuries 48%, followed by ergometer 21%, running 14% and then weights 12%. It can be suggested that lumbar and shoulder injury prevention and rehabilitation should be incorporated into rowing programs. Rowing technique, especially at times of fatigue, must be a focus for prevention of injury. This minor thesis was written by a post-graduate student as part of the requirements of the Master of Health Science (Osteopathy) program