Musculoskeletal injuries in fixed-seat rowing

Abstract

Objectives. — Rowing, when practiced as a sport, is currently typically conducted on sliding-seat boats which permit efficient lower limb use. Nevertheless, traditional fixed-seat rowing, with its own particular technique, is experiencing a revival and competitions utilizing this technique are held on a regular basis around the world. This paper investigated injuries sustained by competitive fixed-seat rowers when compared to rowers using the more widely studied sliding-seat technique.

Method. — Two cohorts of male rowers, who train and compete on fixed-seat and sliding seat boats at national levels were asked to fill in a questionnaire looking into musculoskeletal injuries sustained as a result of their particular rowing style. Portuguese sliding-seat rowers rowed standard World Rowing (FISA) approved boats whilst fixed-seat rowers from Malta used traditional wooden boats and oars. Injury probabilities between the two cohorts were compared.

Results. — Statistically significant diminution, P = 0.022, of knee injuries in the fixed-seat group was observed when compared to standard sliding-seat rowing, something which may be explained from the biomechanics of the stroke. Also, pelvic, other lower limb, neck and rib injuries were absent in the fixed-seat cohort. The incidence of back, shoulder, forearm and wrist injuries was comparable in both groups despite the increased reliance on the upper body, in the fixed-seat stroke. This means that contrary to common perception, fixed-seat rowing is a safe sport to practice. Furthermore, with its reduced risk of lower limb injuries, this technique could potentially form part of rehabilitation programs for rowers with such injuries.