HAMSTRING MUSCLE INJURIES AMONG WATER SKIERS - FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME ANDPREVENTION

Water skiing is associated with severe injuries to the proximal hamstr ing muscles. We wanted to define the mechanism of injury, describe the associated pathologic changes, determine the functional limitations o f patients, and suggest measures to prevent Injury. Twelve patients wi th water skiing-related hamstring injuries were included. Six patients were experienced skiers and six were novices. The mechanism of injury was identical in five of six novice skiers. Each sustained the injury while attempting to get up on one or two skis from a submerged positi on. In contrast, the expert skiers all sustained injury secondary;to a fall while skiing. Physical examination documented evidence of comple te or partial avulsion of the proximal hamstring muscle origins in ail patients. In addition, six patients had magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography scans that confirmed the location and extent of t he tear. Convalescence ranged from 3 months to 1.5 years before the pa tient could return to vigorous activities. Seven patients (58%) return ed to most of their preinjury sports, albeit at a lower level. Five pa tients (42%), all with complete disruptions, were unable to run or par ticipate in sports requiring agility. Two of these patients required d elayed surgical repairs because of persistent functional limitations.