Injuries associated with inline skating in the European region

Objectives: to gain greater awareness and understanding of the circumstances leading to injuries associated with inline skating and to provide indices for determining preventive measures. Methods: data on injuries during inline skating were collected from seven member states of the European Union (EU) through the European Home and Leisure Accident Surveillance System (EHLASS). Results: the mean incidence rate for injuries while inline skating is 17 per 100 000 inhabitants. In the EU in 1996, about 65 000 people were treated at an Emergency Department for an inline skate injury (excluding traffic injuries). About 60% of the victims are male, while the age group most at risk is 10–14 years old. Most injuries are due to a fall and wrist injuries are most common. Conclusions: the results of the analysis give indications for possible preventive measures. Although the features of the injuries often differ per country, the countries can learn from each other in preventing these types of injuries. Educational campaigns should be targeted at young teenagers, use of protective equipment (like wrist protectors) and skating techniques. EHLASS has potential for intercountry comparisons, but its value will improve if selecting hospitals and coding agreements will be standardised.