ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: Despite the rapid increase in the number of in-line skaters, there are few epidemiological studies reported on in-line skate injuries in Korea. This study investigated the pattern of in-line skate injuries in a population of school children, with a particular attention being paid to the effect of protective gear in its prevention. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire was given to all school children from 8 elementary schools in an urban area. A total of 13, 482 children and/or their parents were enrolled in this study. The number of in-line skaters, the habit of wearing protective gear, the history of any injury including fractures, and the pattern and etiology of fractures in these children were examined during 2003. RESULTS: Of the responders, 84.6% enjoyed in-line skating. The yearly incidence of in-line skate injuries in 2003 was 39.0% with 1.3% involving fracture.Only 17.0% of in-line skaters wore protective gear, which decreased the incidence of fracture by 72.7%. As they grow older, fewer children were wearing protective gears with a corresponding increase in the incidence of fractures. CONCLUSION: In-line skate injuries are a significant health problem in school children. The use of the protective gear should be encouraged, particularly in older age group.