Musculoskeletal Injuries in California Ocean Lifeguards

Databases on ocean lifeguard injuries are scarce and it is likely that available injury data on lifeguards underestimates the prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries in this population. Currently, the prevalence of injuries in California ocean lifeguards is unknown. The purpose of this study was to identify and describe musculoskeletal injuries present in California ocean lifeguards. This study additionally examined the distribution of injury according to several demographic categories. Of the lifeguards who took this survey, 61% stated they have sustained a work-related injury at some point in their career, and 1410 total injuries were reported. Age, years of experience, employment status, and swimming as a method of maintaining fitness for the job were significantly associated the occurrence of injury. Over half of the injuries reported were within the following lower body segments: thigh/knee, lower leg/ankle, and foot. The knee was the most common injury location requiring surgery. Proper identification and treatment of ocean lifeguard injuries should be a priority due to the high prevalence of injury and the unknown potential effects of these injuries on the individuals. If risk factors for injuries in lifeguards can be identified early on in their career, then interventions can be implemented, which may overall reduce future injury rates within this population