Citation

Nathanson AT, Young JM, Young C. Clin. J. Sport. Med. 2015; 25(5): 425-431.

Affiliation

*Department of Emergency Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and the Injury Prevention Center at Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island; †Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Division of Sports Medicine, University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii; ‡Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Community and Family, Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, Canadian Academy of Sport Medicine, Publisher Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/JSM.0000000000000252

PMID

26340735

Abstract

A request for a preparticipation medical evaluation for wilderness watersports may be made by guiding agencies, instructional camps, or by patients presenting for an annual visit. Although guidelines have been published regarding preparticipation physical evaluation for traditional competitive high school and collegiate sports, little has been written about medical evaluations for those wishing to engage in wilderness and adventure watersports. In this article, we offer guidance based on literature review and expert opinion. Watersports are among the most common recreational activities in the United States and are generally safe. Drowning, however, is a significant risk, particularly in small, self-propelled craft, and among children. Medical counseling before participation in watersports should include screening for medical conditions which may impair swimming ability, including a history of seizures, heart disease, and lung disease. Physicians should also promote preventive health measures such as use of lifejackets and sun protection, as well as alcohol avoidance. Swim testing tailored to specific activities should be strongly considered for children and those with questionable swimming ability.

Language: en