RESUMEN
A key research theme identified during the 2021 Strategic Delivery Plan (SDP) for Defence Medical Services (DMS) Research was preventing and treating musculoskeletal injury (MSKI). MSKI is a significant burden to military populations globally, reducing both operational strength and force readiness. It is therefore essential that research is conducted to gain a greater understanding of the epidemiology, aetiology and risk factors associated with MSKI to develop targeted prevention strategies and rehabilitation interventions. The Academic Department of Military Rehabilitation (ADMR) and the recently established MSKI research-theme working group must use a combination of balance and flexibility when coordinating research priorities to ensure they align and reflect both higher level DMS and UK Defence Rehabilitation practitioner-driven priorities. This article describes the response ADMR have taken to meet and align with the requirements of the 2021 SDP.
Asunto(s)
Medicina , Personal Militar , Enfermedades Musculoesqueléticas , Humanos , Factores de RiesgoRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: To determine and compare the prevalence, nature and predictors of agricultural motorcycle injuries (2, 3 & 4 wheels) in a high-risk cohort of Western Australian adolescents. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of 326 students (Years 11 and 12) was drawn from the six designated agricultural colleges, in Western Australia. The survey instrument was assessed as reliable and measured riding exposure, vehicle type and maintenance, use of protective equipment, training and injury experience. RESULTS: For those subjects with access to an agricultural motorcycle (n = 240), a total of 53% (n = 127) had incurred an injury. Of these, 73% (n = 92) resulted from two wheelers and 24% (n = 31) from ATVs, with 3% (n = 4) not specified. No significant differences in the nature of injury or body parts injured was observed. Approximately one-third of those injured required medical treatment. Predictors of injury were maximum travelling speed exceeding 101 km/hour (OR 4.53) and only sometimes wearing a helmet (OR 4.10). CONCLUSIONS: Agricultural motorcycle injuries are a significant issue in rural areas, with potential intervention points relating to improving rider training and reducing specific risk-taking behaviours. IMPLICATIONS: Further work to investigate the efficacy of rider training interventions for agricultural motorcycles are warranted.