A narrative review of injury characteristics and risk factors in snowboarding

This manuscript reviews and examines the characteristics and risk factors of snowboarding injuries, drawing on research findings from both domestic and international studies. Snowboarding, a prevalent winter activity, is associated with a relatively high injury incidence, with males generally experiencing higher rates than females, and these rates differ by age group. The most frequent injury locations are the knee (16.1%), followed by shoulder/clavicle (14.3%), and head/face (13.5%). A significant number of these injuries are classified as moderate to severe. Factors influencing snowboarding injuries can be divided into personal and environmental categories. Personal factors such as gender, advanced age, delayed physical maturation, elevated competition level, increased fatigue, and non-standard technical movements increase the risk of injury. Environmental factors, including the state of ski resorts, equipment performance, and fluctuating snow conditions, also contribute to the risk of injury. This synthesis highlights the multifaceted nature of snowboarding injury risk and the need for comprehensive preventive strategies.