Foot Injuries at Music Festivals–One of the Most Common Presentations to On-site Medical Services

Abstract

Introduction:Foot injuries are a common patient presentation at music festivals, and are resource-intensive patient encounters by virtue of their comparative volume. There are no published accounts devoted to these ubiquitous, typical, predictable festival injuries leading to presentation to on-site medical services for treatment.Method:A retrospective chart review was performed of visits to medical services for first aid or medical care involving feet at a multi-day music festival in Canada. Data extracted included demographics, injury characteristics, and type of footwear. Encounters were classified as initial or repeat visits, and repeat visits were assessed for having had previous dressings applied.Results:Over the five day festival period, foot care visits accounted for 416 of 1129 (37%) patient presentations for minor care. Most common injuries were blisters (51%), ankle sprains (10%), lacerations (8%), abrasions (6%), and bug bites (6%). Footwear was reported as shoes (28%), shoes and socks (28%), flip-flops (19%), sandals (28%) and bare feet only (5%). The most common blister sites were toes (48%) and the posterior heel (17%). 12% of cases were repeat visits, and 50% of repeat visits were for dressings failure.Conclusion:Foot injuries make up a significant portion of presentations, and often re-presentations, to medical services at music festivals. Preparation for these common injuries should include (1) a dedicated and purposeful bandage selection and supply, (2) provider training in best foot care practices, including bombproof, danceable dressings, and (3) educational resources to inform attendees of risks and provide preventative upstream measures that might allow them to avoid injury.