Factors associated with injuries in Hawaiian canoe paddlers

Abstract

Introduction: The Hawaiian canoe has numerous bene-fits for those who use it. Furthermore, it is considered a moderate/high-intensity cyclic sport that can cause injuries. Studies on factors associated with injuries in Hawaiian canoe paddlers are considered limited and scarce. Objective: To identify the profile of canoe paddlers and determine the main factors associated with injuries. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 Hawaiian canoe paddlers (54% females, 45.6 ± 10.0 years old; 46% males, 44.8 ± 11.7 years old) using an online survey, with questions on sociodemographic and anthropometric information and practice and injuries. Results: Participants reported having at least four years of experience with the modality, training approximately four times a week for a total of six hours. Almost half (45%) of the sample reported having been injured at least once while canoeing. The back/spine was the body region with the highest injury prevalence, with 38.6%. Intense training was considered the only associated factor for injuries (odds ratio: 3.98; 95% confidence interval: 1.71 - 9.26). Conclusion: This pioneering study in Brazil allowed us to profile Hawaiian canoe paddlers and identify the main factors associated with injuries. Paddlers who train intensely are more likely to develop injuries during practice. Therefore, this variable must be considered when planning sessions.