Musculoskeletal pain related to surfing practice: Which role for sports rehabilitation strategies? A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Surf practice contributes to overuse injuries and musculoskeletal pain. Relationship between the type of surfing practiced and the onset of pain is not fully understood as well as the potential role of rehabilitation in preventing it. OBJECTIVE: To investigate musculoskeletal pain and to deepen whether the age and the anatomical region involved influenced the pain appearance in relation to four surfing disciplines. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out. An online survey was addressed to a group of Italian surfers (practicing surf, kitesurf, windsurf and stand up paddle since at least 1 year), collecting demographic data, discipline practiced, location of musculoskeletal pain. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-six surfers were involved in the study. Spine and upper limbs pain was more frequent compared to lower limbs one in the surf (p < 0.001) and in the windsurf groups (p = 0.007). In the kitesurf group a greater prevalence of pain was observed in spine and lower limbs compared to upper limbs (p = 0.017). Low back pain is the most represented among the spine pain subgroups (p < 0.001). Pain was lower in younger athletes (p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS: Understanding risk factors and biomechanics of musculoskeletal pain is essential to realize prevention training strategies. Rehabilitation in sinergy with specific training allows pain-free activity, optimizing its overall health benefits.