The effect of helmets on the risk of head and neck injuries among skiers and snowboarders: a meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The prevention of head injuries in alpine activities has focused on helmets. However, no systematic review has examined the effect of helmets on head and neck injuries among skiers and snowboarders.

Methods

We searched electronic databases, conference proceedings and reference lists using a combination of the key words "head injury or head trauma," "helmet" and "skiing or snowboarding." We included studies that used a control group; compared skiers or snowboarders with and without helmets; and measured at least one objectively quantified outcome (e.g., head injury, and neck or cervical injury).

Results

We included 10 case-control, 1 case-control/case-crossover and 1 cohort study in our analysis. The pooled odds ratio (OR) indicated that skiers and snowboard

SUBMITTER: Russell K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2831705 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature