Prevalencia de dolor en escaladores: resultados del estudio exploratorio CLIMB-PAIN

Abstract

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of pain in climbers, analyzing its distribution by sex, the most common pain locations, the relationship with anthropometric and sport-related factors, and its impact on daily activities.

Methods

A preliminary prevalence study was conducted between February and September 2023, in which 271 climbers completed a self-administered digital questionnaire. Participants who spent more hours on other sports than on climbing, as well as minors, were excluded.

Results

The prevalence of pain was 42.6%. The hand was the most affected area, with 24.7% of cases; however, in men, the fingers of the hand were the most prevalent (27.6%), while in women, the shoulder was the most affected region (23.5%). Statistically significant relationships were found between the presence of pain and age (p = 0.038) and climbing experience (P = .002).

Conclusions

Pain in climbers is highly prevalent, with the hand being the most affected area overall, although shoulder pain is more prevalent in women. Pain is significantly related to age and the duration of climbing practice. Pain intensity is moderate, and the most common duration exceeds 12 months. Mood was the most affected aspect by pain. Additionally, pain tends to increase after climbing, with the lowest intensity reported before the activity.