Survey of Musculoskeletal Injuries, Prehike Conditioning, and On-Trail Injury Prevention Strategies Self-Reported by Long-Distance Hikers on the Appalachian Trail

IntroductionStudies show that 40 to 60% of long-distance hikers on the Appalachian Trail experience musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries, but these studies are over a decade old. The increasing popularity hiking and injury prevention advances warrant re-evaluation patterns. We sought determine frequency self-reported MSK injuries in associations with prehike conditioning on-trail strategies.MethodsThe Conservancy surveys registered annually. Our orthopedic team added 10 questions specific injury, training, equipment 2018 2019 electronic, cross-sectional survey. Descriptive statistics frequencies were calculated. Categorical variables compared using χ2 analysis. Correlations performed for between training gear injury. Logistic regression assessed effect Statistical significance was set at P<0.05.ResultsOf 1295 respondents (52% response rate), 61% (n=791) reported complaints; 28% (n=363) overuse/chronic 18% (n=238) acute injuries. complaints resulted 11% (n=147) stopping their hike. Respondents who did not train (13%, n=168) significantly more likely report an (odds ratio 2.82; 95% CI 1.92–4.24; P<0.001). Strength stretch/yoga, endurance associated less (all Stabilizing footwear poles/sticks fewer P<0.001).ConclusionsPrehike correlate Further research is warranted elucidate whether promoting strategies can reduce among hikers. Studies strategies. P<0.05. Of Prehike