What started as a traditional form of adventure climbing has grown into a popular recreational and competitive activity. Rock climbing is the latest extreme sport to spread across America. It has been estimated that over 300,000 people in the U.S. have climbed a rock wall. However, with an increase in participation comes an increase in injuries. As a result, there has been a move to bring more awareness of the risks involved to beginning, novice, and expert climbers in the hope of preventing injuries.

The demands of rock climbing
Rock climbing is a very vigorous and physically demanding sport. You must have tremendous strength, particularly in the back, shoulders, hips, and arms. Of course, some climbers may not realize that being mentally prepared is just as important. For instance, you must have full body awareness, such as knowing where your feet and hands are before you make your next move. Also, you must be able to focus on recurring challenges while trying to maintain your balance and get into the perfect position for your next move.

Types of injuries sustained in rock climbing
Of major concern to those new to rock climbing is the risk of injury, especially to the fingers and hands. The frequency and severity of rock-climbing injuries depend on many variables, such as the experience and condition of the climber, the type of climbing, the preventive measures taken, and the treatment received after an injury. The following are the most common injuries in rock climbing:

• Cubital Fossa Problems occur when pressure is placed on the brachialis and biceps brachii muscles while pulling the body weight up. This can lead to inflammation and strain of the muscle-tendon junction (Fig. 1).
• Lateral Epicondylitis is inflammation of the outermost tendons that attach the muscles in the forearm to the elbow. These tendons allow the arm to extend (straighten) (Fig. 2).
• Finger Collateral Ligament Strain is a strain of the ligaments (tissue that connects bones) supporting the finger joints. This condition is usually caused by holds requiring support of a large percentage of body weight with one finger (Fig. 3).
• Interphalangeal (IP) Joint Effusion is an inflammation of the finger joint and a build-up of fluid in the joint capsule, which can lead to arthritis.
• Climber's Finger is damage to the flexor tendon pulleys that encircle and support the tendons that cross the finger joints. It is caused by trying to support your body weight with one or two fingers (Fig. 4).
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition found in about 25% of climbers in which the median nerve of the hand is compressed, causing pain and numbness (Fig. 5).
• Injuries from Falling can occur from exposure to high altitude, which can affect judgment and hand-eye coordination, or from not paying close attention to your climbing and to that of those climbing with you. Fractures (broken bones) of the ankle and tibia (shin bone) are commonly seen in climbers who have fallen. In some cases, falling can cause severe injuries to the head, neck, and back, resulting in impairment or even death.

Are these injuries preventable?
As with any sport, overuse of one body part can result in injury. Taking preventive steps, such as using climbing techniques that do not put too much pressure on one hand or finger at one time, can play a big part in avoiding injuries. Many indoor climbing facilities use large hand-holds, allowing you to maintain a good grip while putting less pressure on your fingers. Climbers should take breaks between climbs to rest and recover.

Remember.......
There are many technical terms and techniques associated with rock climbing that must be mastered before trying even the easiest of climbs. Beginning climbers should start off with basic climbs, such as bouldering (climbing horizontally just a few feet off the ground), and work their way to more advanced climbing, such as multipitch lead climbing (climbing on rock faces that reach up to hundreds of feet in height). A good way to master these climbs is through practice at your local indoor climbing facility. There you will find a variety of walls for different skill levels, with the hand-holds closer together on the beginning walls and spread out on the more difficult walls, offering climbers a greater challenge.

Benefits of rock climbing
Rock climbing can be done by most age groups and serves as a tremendous total body workout, involving most of the major muscle groups. It can help you build confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and sharpen your mental focus. Equipment costs for a beginning climber are around $300.00. You can learn more about this sport by contacting your local indoor climbing center or an experienced outdoor recreational guide.

Dayton Preston
Columbus, Georgia