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Several risk factors for injury
have been consistently identified in the scientific literature. These risk factors seem to
be consistent across different sample populations. Injuries have been shown to both
increase at younger ages (especially males age 15-25) and to decrease with age (less
activity and more experience). Males are considered at higher risk for injury than
females. Previous injuries increase the risk for subsequent injuries especially if treated
improperly or activity is resumed before complete healing has taken place. A few studies
have reported that both persons with very low BMI and very high BMI are at increased risk
of injuries. More experienced athletes have lower risk of select types of injuries while
the risk of overuse injuries increases with long-term participation in exercise with
inadequate rest and recovery. Military studies suggest that low fitness levels increase
the risk for injury among new recruits entering a physical training program. In contrast,
high fitness levels have also been associated with an increased risk for injury likely due
to an exposure-related phenomenon (more fit people exercise more and therefore have more
exposure to injury). Several studies in runners show a dose response relationship between
the amount of running (total mileage, pace, etc) and an increased risk of injury. Other
training factors are related to injury incidence such as terrain, footwear, structural
deformities, environmental influences and even personality traits. Most of these risk
factors have been identified in elite athletic populations and not in the general public.
More information is needed regarding the risk factors related to injuries among
recreationally active persons.
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